At just 18, Luke Littler, the darts prodigy known as “The Nuke,” has taken the sport by storm, cementing his status as one of the most exciting talents in recent memory. Fresh off a triumphant run that saw him claim back-to-back World Series titles in Australia and New Zealand, Littler has credited his girlfriend, Faith Millar, for being his rock during a demanding 23,000-mile journey across the globe. The teenager’s candid reflections on the emotional and logistical challenges of his recent travels reveal a grounded young star navigating fame, pressure, and a grueling schedule with the support of his 19-year-old partner.
Littler’s meteoric rise began with his stunning debut at the 2023/24 PDC World Darts Championship, where, at 16, he reached the final and captured the world’s attention. Since then, he’s added a string of accolades, including the Premier League title, the World Matchplay, and the recent World Series victories in Wollongong and Auckland. His latest triumphs Down Under saw him defeat top players like Mike De Decker, Gerwyn Price, and world No. 1 Luke Humphries, pocketing £60,000 in prize money and pushing his career earnings past £1.5 million. Yet, behind the dazzling performances and record-breaking feats, Littler faced a unique challenge on this trip: traveling without his usual support system.
Unlike last year, when his family accompanied him to Australia, Littler’s parents opted out of the long-haul journey this time, having struggled with jet lag on their previous visit. “Last year with my family, we struggled with jet lag – we were up at silly hours in the morning, all in the same room, all up at the same time,” Littler recalled. Adding to the complexity, his manager, Martin Foulds, was forced to return to the UK early due to illness, leaving Littler potentially alone for the two-week stint. Enter Faith Millar, the Wigan-based beautician who has become a constant presence in Littler’s life since their relationship blossomed earlier this year.
“I’m pretty lucky that my girlfriend has come over because, if she didn’t, I would’ve been on my own for two weeks,” Littler said, his gratitude evident. “It’s been good to have her here to have some support for myself.” Faith, 19, was by his side in Auckland, cheering him on as he clinched the New Zealand Darts Masters with a commanding 8-4 victory over Humphries, averaging an astonishing 115. Her presence provided a sense of normalcy amid the whirlwind of international travel and high-stakes competition, a dynamic that has clearly grounded the young star.
The couple’s relationship, which went public in July after months of speculation, has not been without its challenges. Littler and Faith, who met in February and bonded over their shared roots near Warrington, have faced online trolling, with some critics targeting their romance. Reflecting on the scrutiny, Littler admitted it was initially “tough” but dismissed the detractors as “jealous” individuals trying to “ruin us.” Faith, described as bubbly and kind, has been a steadfast supporter, attending events like the World Matchplay in Blackpool, where the couple shared a now-iconic kiss before Littler’s quarter-final match. That moment, captured on camera, marked a turning point, confirming their relationship after months of insisting they were “just friends.”
Littler’s journey to the top hasn’t been without personal sacrifices. His previous relationship with Eloise Milburn, a 21-year-old beauty consultant and darts player, ended in July 2024 due to the demands of his relentless schedule. The split was amicable, with Littler taking to social media to defend Milburn against trolls, urging fans to “stop sending hate” and give them space. Now, with Faith by his side, Littler seems to have found a partner who understands the unique pressures of his skyrocketing career. Her inclusion in a recent family holiday in Spain, alongside Littler’s parents and extended family, signals a deepening bond, a stark contrast to the more public nature of his previous relationship.
On the oche, Littler’s confidence is unshakable. In Auckland, he felt “untouchable,” even hitting a nine-darter in practice during a break in the final. “I was just in the zone and I wasn’t missing much,” he said, reflecting on his rhythm against Humphries. His sights are now set on the Flanders Darts Trophy in Antwerp, where he aims to extend his winning streak to four titles. “I said on stage, the next one is Antwerp for the European Tour,” he noted, already focused on the challenge ahead. Yet, Littler’s ambition extends beyond trophies—he’s chasing the world No. 1 ranking, a goal he believes is within reach as he continues to pressure Humphries at the top.
Off the stage, Littler’s life reflects his rapid ascent. He recently moved his family into a luxurious £6,000-a-month, five-bedroom mansion near Warrington, complete with a pool and sprawling garden. The move, a far cry from their modest semi-detached home, underscores his newfound wealth and status. Yet, despite the fame and fortune, Littler remains tethered to his roots, crediting his family and Faith for keeping him grounded. As he prepares for Antwerp, the darts world watches eagerly, but it’s Faith’s unwavering support that seems to give Littler the edge to conquer both the board and the challenges of his extraordinary life.
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