The countdown to the PDC World Darts Championship 2025 is on, and all eyes are set on what promises to be one of the most hotly contested tournaments in recent memory. Scheduled to commence in less than two weeks at the iconic Alexandra Palace in London, this year’s championship carries a unique buzz, largely due to the meteoric rise of Luke Littler, who enters the event as the outright favorite for the first time. At just 17 years old, Littler’s journey from promising youngster to tournament frontrunner has been nothing short of extraordinary, and fans worldwide are eager to see if he can fulfill his destiny on the grandest stage of all.
Luke Littler: The Rising Star’s Unstoppable Ascent
Luke Littler, priced at 2/1 by most bookmakers, returns to the World Darts Championship as the favorite—a testament to both his talent and the remarkable progress he has made over the past year. Hailing from Warrington, England, Littler first captured the public’s imagination during the 2024 championship, where he made an unprecedented run to the final. His calm demeanor, clinical finishing, and astonishing ability to hit high scores under pressure marked him as a special talent.
His 2024 performance was no fluke. Littler has since solidified his reputation as one of the sport’s brightest stars, winning prestigious tournaments such as the PDC Grand Slam, Premier League, and World Series. These victories not only showcased his consistency but also demonstrated an ability to adapt and thrive in high-pressure situations—qualities essential for success at Alexandra Palace. His crowning moment in 2024 came when he hit a televised nine-darter, the youngest player ever to do so, cementing his place in the annals of darts history.
As Littler prepares for his return to the World Championships, his recent form makes him the player to beat. Statistically, he leads the field in key performance metrics: averages, doubles, and 171-180s over his last 200 legs. These figures highlight not just his raw talent but also his remarkable consistency—a crucial factor in a grueling tournament format where sustained excellence is required.
The Rematch: Luke Humphries Eyes Back-to-Back Titles
While Littler is the favorite, he faces stiff competition from Luke Humphries, the defending champion and the current world number one. Priced at 3/1, Humphries is only a marginal second favorite, underscoring just how close this battle could be. Humphries’ triumph in the 2024 championship was a watershed moment in his career. Defeating Littler in a thrilling final by seven sets to four, he demonstrated his ability to rise to the occasion and handle the immense pressure of darts’ biggest stage.
Retaining the PDC World Championship is one of the sport’s toughest challenges—a feat only achieved by legends like Phil Taylor, Adrian Lewis, and Gary Anderson. Humphries will attempt to join this elite club, but he knows the road will be fraught with challenges. The “target on his back” phenomenon is real; every opponent will be gunning for him, and the weight of expectation can be a heavy burden. Nevertheless, his recent performances suggest he is more than ready for the task. Humphries has consistently delivered in televised tournaments, showcasing a mental fortitude and technical precision that few can match. His ability to remain composed under pressure, combined with a lethal finishing game, makes him a formidable contender.
Veteran Contenders: Anderson and Van Gerwen Lurk
Beyond the battle of the Lukes, the championship narrative includes two seasoned veterans who are more than capable of upsetting the apple cart. Gary Anderson, a two-time PDC World Champion, enters the fray with odds of 9/1. Known as “The Flying Scotsman,” Anderson remains one of the most respected players on the circuit. His experience, combined with a knack for delivering on the big stage, makes him a dangerous opponent. While recent years have seen him play second fiddle to younger stars, Anderson’s performances in 2024 suggest he is far from done. His ability to find his rhythm and maintain high averages over long matches could see him go deep into the tournament.
Meanwhile, Michael van Gerwen, one of the most decorated players in darts history, finds himself in an unfamiliar position. Priced at 11/1, the Dutchman is the fourth favorite—an unusual spot for a player who once dominated the sport. Van Gerwen’s form in 2024 has been inconsistent; he has failed to secure a televised title, a rarity for someone of his caliber. However, writing off MVG would be a mistake. A three-time PDC World Champion (2014, 2017, and 2019), Van Gerwen knows what it takes to win at Alexandra Palace. His aggressive style, coupled with an ability to hit high scores in quick succession, makes him a perennial threat. If he can rediscover his best form, a deep run is certainly possible.
The Stakes and Expectations
As the tournament approaches, the stakes have never been higher. For Littler, this is an opportunity to confirm his status as the future of darts and potentially change the landscape of the sport. For Humphries, it’s a chance to cement his legacy and prove that his 2024 triumph was no one-off. Meanwhile, veterans like Anderson and Van Gerwen are eager to remind everyone that they still have what it takes to compete at the highest level.
The 2025 PDC World Darts Championship is shaping up to be a thrilling showdown, blending youthful exuberance with seasoned experience. With the sport’s biggest names all vying for glory, fans can expect drama, tension, and moments of sheer brilliance. As Alexandra Palace prepares to host another chapter in darts history, the question remains: will it be the year of Luke Littler, or can someone else steal the spotlight?