At just 18 years old, Luke Littler has cemented his place among darts’ elite with a stunning victory at the 2025 Betfred World Matchplay in Blackpool, defeating James Wade 18-13 in a thrilling final to claim the Phil Taylor Trophy. The win marked Littler’s completion of the prestigious PDC Triple Crown—comprising the World Championship, Premier League, and World Matchplay—making him the fifth player in history and the youngest by far to achieve this feat. Veteran commentator Chris Mason, reflecting on Littler’s performance, pinpointed a pivotal shift in the teenager’s mindset as the key to his dominance. “I think that’s the only difference between being world-class and completely dominating,” Mason said, noting Littler’s newfound dedication to practice and study of the game. This transformation, coupled with his raw talent, propelled “The Nuke” to a record-shattering performance at the Winter Gardens, where he redefined what’s possible in professional darts.
Littler’s journey to the 2025 World Matchplay title was a testament to his resilience and growth. Entering the tournament as the world No. 2, he faced intense pressure after a first-round exit in 2024. His path to the final was anything but straightforward, with comebacks defining his campaign. In the second round, he trailed Jermaine Wattimena 7-2 but roared back to win 13-11 in a tie-break, declaring, “I’m a world champion for a reason, I find these gears when I need it.” Against Andrew Gilding in the quarter-finals, Littler set a tournament record with 18 180s, holding off a late surge to secure a 16-14 victory. “I really didn’t want to go to a tie-break, so to hit an 11-darter with back-to-back 180s was class,” he said, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
The semi-final against Josh Rock was a spectacle, featuring a combined 29 180s—a new World Matchplay record—and Littler’s fourth televised nine-darter. Trailing 6-1, he ignited the crowd with the perfect leg, later admitting, “It definitely sparked me into life.” His 17-14 win over Rock, a close friend and fellow former World Youth Champion, highlighted his mental fortitude. “I wasn’t happy at 5-0 down. A slow start. I picked myself back up,” Littler told reporters, emphasizing his knack for turning deficits into victories. The final against Wade, the 2007 champion, followed a similar script. Wade stormed to a 5-0 lead with clinical finishing, but Littler responded with a sweep of the next five legs, leveling at 5-5. “Five-nil down once again, I said, ‘I’ve been here before, what are you doing?’” Littler reflected. His 107.24 average and 17 180s, compared to Wade’s six, underscored his scoring prowess, culminating in a decisive 115 checkout to seal the title.
Mason’s praise for Littler’s evolution centered on his commitment to preparation. “Luke has the talent, the ability, the mental strength—and he’s humble,” Mason said. “Just a normal 18-year-old lad who happens to be one of the greatest we’ve seen.” Unlike his earlier reliance on raw ability, Littler’s increased practice hours and study of opponents’ games have elevated him from prodigy to potential all-time great. His tournament total of 64 180s smashed Adrian Lewis’ previous record of 56, and his 107.5 semi-final average against Rock was among the highest in Matchplay history. “It means absolutely everything,” Littler said after lifting the trophy, his sixth PDC major title. “I came here last year, lost in the first round, and some people thought I might have lost again. I’m happy I can pull myself out of these scorelines.”
Wade, contesting his seventh Matchplay final at 42, earned plaudits for his longevity. “A word for Wadey,” Mason said, acknowledging the veteran’s personal challenges and his ability to compete at the highest level 19 years after his debut. Wade’s early dominance, with checkouts like a 101 and a bullseye finish, kept the final competitive until Littler’s late surge. “I’m exhausted after that,” Wade admitted, praising the electric Winter Gardens atmosphere. The tournament also saw Lisa Ashton win the Women’s World Matchplay, adding to the event’s historic feel.
Littler’s ambition remains boundless. “Obviously I want to conquer everything in this sport,” he said, eyeing the World Grand Prix and World Masters to complete his collection of PDC televised titles. With £200,000 added to his £1.5 million career earnings, he’s closing in on world No. 1 Luke Humphries. “Once I win one of everything, I won’t pack it in just yet,” Littler declared, hinting at a future where he could challenge Phil Taylor’s 16 Matchplay titles. As Mason noted, Littler’s blend of humility and hunger sets him apart, positioning him to dominate darts for years to come.
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