In a thrilling showdown in Wollongong, 18-year-old darts sensation Luke Littler, known as ‘The Nuke,’ clinched the Australian Darts Masters title on August 9, 2025, defeating Belgian debutant Mike De Decker 8-4 in a captivating final. The victory marked Littler’s third World Series of Darts title and his fifth major trophy of the season, a remarkable achievement for the reigning world champion who had faced a humbling 8-1 defeat to Gerwyn Price in the same final just a year prior. The packed arena buzzed with anticipation as Littler’s clinical precision and youthful swagger outshone De Decker’s spirited challenge, cementing his status as a global darts phenomenon.
Littler’s journey to the title was a display of resilience and brilliance. After narrowly escaping an upset in the first round against Haupai Puha, winning 6-5 in a final-leg decider, Littler hit his stride on finals day. He dispatched local favorite Damon Heta 6-3 in the quarter-finals, showcasing his ability to handle pressure in front of a passionate Australian crowd. In the semi-finals, he faced top seed Stephen Bunting, a world number five known for his consistency. Littler’s 7-4 victory, highlighted by a crucial 121 checkout, secured his place in the final. “It feels very good. It’s another one I can tick off,” Littler told reporters post-match, his calm demeanor belying the intensity of his performance. “I knew if I won the first game [against Heta], it would be a long night and I am very happy.”
Mike De Decker, a 29-year-old World Grand Prix champion making his World Series debut, proved a worthy adversary. His path to the final was nothing short of sensational, including a stunning 6-0 whitewash of world number one Luke Humphries, who was battling illness, in the quarter-finals. De Decker followed with a 7-4 win over Chris Dobey, demonstrating his flair with a 103.66 average and a 46.2% checkout rate. In the final, he fought back from a 2-0 deficit to level at 2-2 with a 71 finish, but Littler’s relentless scoring, including six 180s and a 109.4 average at the interval, proved too much. “He needs to retire because it’s not fun anymore,” De Decker quipped after the match, his humor masking the sting of defeat against a player who seems untouchable at times.
The final was a rollercoaster of momentum. Littler opened with a blistering 11-darter and a 143 checkout, igniting the crowd. Despite a rare stumble—missing six darts at double-16 when leading 6-3—he regained composure, sealing the match with an 81 finish on the bull for a 12-darter. “It’s not gone to plan this year in the World Series, but there are plenty of opportunities to win, and I’ve finally picked one up tonight,” Littler said, reflecting on his first World Series triumph in six attempts this year. His ability to recover from last year’s final loss to Price, where he managed just one leg, underscored his growth as a competitor.
De Decker’s debut was a breakout moment, earning him respect as a rising star. His upset over Humphries and competitive showing against Littler signal a bright future. “Stellar debut from Mike De Decker, but Luke Littler is just… Luke,” one fan remarked, capturing the awe surrounding Littler’s dominance. With the New Zealand Darts Masters looming in Auckland, Littler’s victory sets the stage for another potential title run. His 2025 season, already boasting the World Championship, UK Open, Belgian Darts Open, and World Matchplay, positions him as the player to beat. As the darts world marvels at his meteoric rise, Littler’s Australian triumph is a testament to his skill, poise, and unrelenting drive to conquer the sport.
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