Stephen Bunting Hails Luke ‘The Nuke’ Littler as the Catalyst for Darts’ Meteoric Rise
Former world champion Stephen Bunting has lavished praise on Luke ‘The Nuke’ Littler, crediting the teenage sensation with taking darts to unprecedented heights as they prepare for the PDC World Championship at Alexandra Palace in London later this month.
The event, a raucous celebration of skill, showmanship, and fervent fandom, is the crown jewel of the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) calendar. This year, the anticipation is electrified by Littler’s extraordinary impact on the sport, a phenomenon Bunting believes has transformed darts’ standing among global audiences.
A New Era in Darts
Bunting, who claimed the now-defunct BDO World Championship title in 2014, reflected on the immense strides darts has made in the past decade. He emphasized that Littler’s meteoric rise has injected a new energy into the sport, inspiring players and fans alike.
“What Luke has done for our sport in such a short space of time is just incredible, and he is the name on everybody’s lips,” Bunting remarked. “He’s a megastar, and he’s taken our sport to the top echelons. We were already up there for viewing figures behind Premier League football, but it is now at another level.”
Littler, a 17-year-old prodigy from Warrington, has captivated audiences with his maturity, precision, and flair. His remarkable rise has not only made him a household name but has also shifted perceptions of darts, appealing to a younger and more diverse demographic.
Darts’ Growing Popularity
The ripple effects of Littler’s success are evident beyond the oche. Bunting shared a personal anecdote about the changing face of darts fandom:
“I notice it when I go shopping, and I get young kids asking me for autographs and pictures, which never really happened before. It just shows how Luke’s success is bringing the demographic of darts fans down.”
Indeed, darts has surged in popularity, with last year’s PDC World Championship final—where Littler narrowly lost to Luke Humphries—breaking records as the most-watched non-football event in Sky Sports history. The match’s thrilling intensity captivated millions, solidifying darts as a mainstream spectacle.
This rising prominence has even earned darts a place in the iconic Panini trading card universe, a testament to its cultural significance. The newly launched card set features Littler, Bunting, and other luminaries of the sport, allowing fans to celebrate their favorite players in a unique way.
Ally Pally: The Heart of the World Championship
As the PDC World Championship returns to Alexandra Palace (affectionately known as “Ally Pally”), the venue’s future as the tournament’s home has become a topic of discussion. While PDC chairman Barry Hearn has hinted at the possibility of moving the event to accommodate its growing scale, Bunting expressed his strong opposition to such a change.
“In my eyes, it would be sad to move away from Ally Pally because it is an unbelievable place for darts,” he said. “You go there each year, and there’s people dressed as Christmas trees and Batman and Robin. It’s a special place for players, officials, and fans—it’s just a special venue.”
Ally Pally has hosted the World Championship since 2008, becoming synonymous with the vibrant, festive atmosphere that defines the event. For players like Bunting, the venue’s unique charm is irreplaceable.
Littler’s Impact on His Rivals
Luke Littler’s influence extends far beyond television ratings and social media buzz. His rapid ascent has challenged seasoned players to elevate their games, fostering a competitive spirit that benefits the entire sport.
“Luke’s rise has rubbed off on everyone,” Bunting acknowledged. “He’s raised the bar for what young players can achieve and shown that age is no barrier to competing at the highest level. That pushes all of us to work harder and aim higher.”
At just 17, Littler has already demonstrated remarkable poise under pressure. His near-miss against Humphries in the 2024 final showcased his potential to dominate the sport in the years to come. With a calm demeanor and a fearless approach, Littler embodies the modern face of darts—a blend of tradition and innovation.
The Future of Darts
As darts continues its meteoric rise, fueled by stars like Littler, the sport is reaching new audiences worldwide. The combination of thrilling competition, larger-than-life personalities, and an electric fanbase has cemented darts as a global entertainment powerhouse.
Bunting remains optimistic about the sport’s trajectory, crediting the PDC for its innovative approach to promoting darts on the international stage. Initiatives like expanding the World Series of Darts and introducing new digital platforms have ensured that darts remains accessible and engaging to fans of all ages.
A Celebration of the Game
The 2025 PDC World Championship promises to be another unforgettable chapter in darts history. With Luke Littler at the forefront, players like Stephen Bunting, Michael van Gerwen, and reigning champion Luke Humphries will battle it out in front of thousands of fans at Ally Pally and millions more watching from home.
As the sport continues to grow in stature, it’s clear that Littler’s influence has been transformative. For veterans like Bunting, the emergence of a young star who can capture imaginations and elevate darts to new heights is a source of pride and inspiration.
“Darts has never been in a better place,” Bunting concluded. “We’re on the brink of something truly special, and it’s all thanks to players like Luke who are showing the world what our sport is all about.”
With the World Championship just weeks away, the stage is set for a dazzling display of skill, drama, and passion—qualities that have made darts one of the most exciting sports on the planet.