In a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 Premier League Darts season at London’s O2 Arena, the darts world witnessed another chapter in the sport’s meteoric rise, fueled by the electrifying presence of 18-year-old sensation Luke Littler. Despite falling 11-8 to world number one Luke Humphries in the final, Littler’s impact on the sport has been nothing short of revolutionary, as highlighted by fellow competitor Nathan Aspinall. The Stockport-born star, who faced Humphries in the semi-finals, believes Littler’s emergence has ushered darts into a golden era, where players are now celebrated with the fervor reserved for film stars and top footballers.
Aspinall, ranked ninth in the world, didn’t mince words when praising Littler’s influence. “Everyone is obsessed with darts,” he remarked, acknowledging the teenager’s role in elevating the sport’s profile. Littler, often dubbed “Luke the Nuke,” has become a cultural phenomenon, drawing massive crowds and attracting sponsors like bees to honey. His ability to sell out major venues, such as the 15,000-strong O2 Arena, underscores his status as the sport’s pied piper. Yet, Aspinall was quick to emphasize that darts’ newfound popularity isn’t a one-man show. “We all know we owe a lot of it to Luke, but also the rest of the guys that turn out week-in, week-out, not just in the Premier League but the European Tours,” he said, highlighting the collective effort of the darts community.
The Premier League final, held on May 29, 2025, was a showcase of high drama and skill. Littler, the defending champion, stormed into the final after defeating Gerwyn Price 10-7 in the semi-finals. Meanwhile, Humphries battled through a tense semi-final against Aspinall, securing a 10-7 victory to set up a much-anticipated rematch of the 2024 final, where Littler had triumphed. This time, however, Humphries turned the tables. Despite a shaky start, where he missed six darts at double, Humphries rallied to level the score at 3-3 with a stunning 130 checkout. The match remained neck-and-neck, but Humphries’ resilience shone through as he clinched the title with a double 10 finish, earning the £275,000 prize and completing darts’ prestigious triple crown—world championship, World Matchplay, and Premier League.
Littler’s journey to the final was marked by his dominance throughout the season. Topping the league table with 27 victories and a record-breaking six nightly wins, he showcased his prodigious talent. His semi-final performance against Price saw him roar back from a challenging start, nailing a double 16 to secure his place in the final. Even in defeat, Littler’s impact was undeniable, with fans donning purple shirts in his honor and creating an electric atmosphere at the O2.
Aspinall’s admiration for Littler extends beyond his on-stage exploits. The two share a close friendship and even collaborated on a unique venture, opening a temporary darts shop in Sheffield’s Meadowhall Shopping Centre from May 21-23, where fans could meet them for just £5. This initiative highlighted Littler’s ability to connect with fans and further popularize the sport. However, Aspinall stirred debate earlier in the week by suggesting Littler might retire within five years due to his early success. Littler swiftly dismissed the claim, expressing his ambition to surpass Phil Taylor’s record of 16 world titles. “There’s been a target on my back,” Littler said, acknowledging the pressure he faces as the sport’s brightest star. “If I’m not on my A-game, they will catch me out.”
The final wasn’t without its challenges for both players. Littler took an early 3-0 lead, capitalizing on Humphries’ missed doubles, but errors crept in, with Littler struggling on double one in one leg. Humphries, displaying the composure of a seasoned champion, fought back, proving why he remains the world’s top-ranked player. Their rivalry, now at 23 meetings with Littler leading 13-10, promises to captivate audiences for years, with the duo set to team up for England at the World Cup of Darts in Frankfurt from June 12-15.
Aspinall’s own journey in the Premier League was notable. His semi-final loss to Humphries was a hard-fought battle, with a brilliant 124 checkout on the bull keeping him in contention. Despite the defeat, his performance throughout the season, including a victory over Michael van Gerwen in Sheffield to secure his play-off spot, underscored his status as a top competitor. Aspinall’s reflections on Littler’s impact resonate with the broader narrative of darts’ evolution. The sport, once a pub pastime, now commands global attention, with Littler and Humphries at the forefront of this transformation.
As darts heads into its next chapter, the sport’s powerbrokers have struck gold with this dynamic rivalry. Littler’s youth and Humphries’ experience create a perfect storm, ensuring that darts remains a thrilling spectacle. For Aspinall, the future is bright, not just for Littler but for the entire darts community, as they ride the wave of this golden era.
Leave a Reply