Luke Littler, the 18-year-old darts prodigy known as “The Nuke,” has once again proven why he’s the sport’s brightest star, clinching back-to-back World Series titles in Australia and New Zealand in August 2025. His latest triumph at the New Zealand Darts Masters in Hamilton, where he defeated world number one Luke Humphries 8-4 with a staggering 115 average, marked another milestone in his meteoric rise. Yet, behind the scenes, Littler faced unexpected challenges, including a major team disruption that left him leaning heavily on the support of his girlfriend, Faith Millar. “I’m pretty lucky she has come over,” Littler said, reflecting on how Millar’s presence helped him navigate a turbulent trip Down Under.
Littler’s performance in New Zealand was nothing short of spectacular. After a shaky first-round win over Mark Cleaver, where he failed to hit a 180, he found his rhythm on finals night, dispatching Mike De Decker 6-2 and Gerwyn Price 7-2 before dominating Humphries. “I just felt untouchable tonight,” Littler declared, crediting the electric atmosphere at Spark Arena, which he compared to a Premier League night. His seven 180s and back-to-back 11-darters showcased his scoring prowess, while a practice nine-darter during a break in the final hinted at his untapped potential. “I was really feeling it,” he said of a missed 141 checkout attempt, confident he would have nailed the double 15. His form has sparked debate about whether he and Humphries are pulling away from the pack, with Littler humbly noting, “I’ve said plenty of times until I get to world number one, I won’t call myself the best player in the world.”
The trip Down Under, however, wasn’t without its challenges. Littler revealed that his manager, Martin Foulds, had to return to the UK due to an illness, leaving him potentially alone for the two-week tour. “If she didn’t [come], my manager went home because of an illness, so I could have been on my own for two weeks,” Littler explained. Enter Faith Millar, the 19-year-old eyelash technician from Wigan who has become a constant presence in his life since they met in February 2025. Their bond, which grew stronger after a public kiss at the World Matchplay in Blackpool, proved vital during this trip. “It’s just good to have her here to give me some support,” Littler added, highlighting how Millar’s companionship helped him stay focused amid the disruption.
Littler’s journey in 2025 has been a whirlwind. Since becoming the youngest PDC World Champion in January at 17, defeating Michael van Gerwen 7-3, he has amassed six major titles, including the Premier League, Grand Slam, World Series Finals, UK Open, and World Matchplay. His £1.5 million in career earnings, bolstered by a £200,000 World Matchplay prize and lucrative sponsorships with Xbox and BoohooMan, reflect his commercial appeal. Off the oche, his relationship with Millar has drawn attention, though the couple faced online trolling early on. “They’re jealous. They wanna ruin us,” Littler said, dismissing critics and emphasizing their strong connection. Millar’s support was evident in Australia, where she accompanied him to Wollongong, and in New Zealand, where her presence helped him cope with jet lag and the absence of his parents, who skipped the trip after struggling with time differences last year.
The New Zealand triumph sets Littler up for a shot at a fourth consecutive title at the European Tour event in Antwerp. “Hopefully I can make it four in a row,” he said with a smile, exuding confidence. His rivalry with Humphries, who admitted Littler was the better player, adds intrigue to their dominance. “I was really good tonight, he couldn’t do much,” Littler noted, reflecting on a critical 83 checkout that swung the final his way. As he prepares for the World Series finals in Amsterdam from September 12-14, Littler’s blend of talent, resilience, and support from Millar positions him as a force to be reckoned with. The “Littler effect” continues to reshape darts, and with Faith by his side, the teenager from Warrington is ready for whatever comes next.
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