Get ready to witness history in the making! At just 18 years old, Luke Littler is set to become the youngest-ever world number one in darts, shattering records and redefining what’s possible in the sport. But here’s where it gets even more thrilling: his semi-final victory at the Grand Slam of Darts in Wolverhampton not only secured his spot in the final but also guaranteed him the top ranking, regardless of Sunday’s outcome. And this is the part most people miss—Littler’s meteoric rise comes just two years into his professional tour, leaving fans and critics alike in awe.
Littler’s 16-9 triumph over Danny Noppert of the Netherlands wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. By overtaking rival Luke Humphries in the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) rankings, Littler has earned a staggering £1,770,500 over the two-year Order of Merit period—a figure that could climb to £1,850,000 with a final victory. Meanwhile, Humphries, who won this tournament in 2023, will fall just short with £1,769,000, even if he lifts the trophy again. Is Littler’s dominance a sign of a new era, or can Humphries reclaim his throne?
“It hasn’t even been two years on the tour, and I’m already world number one,” Littler told Sky Sports, his confidence palpable. “That’s job done—I am the best in the world. But there’s a bigger match tonight.” Bold words from a player who’s consistently praised Humphries as the world’s best, yet now stands atop the rankings himself. Does being number one truly make you the best, or is it about consistency over time?
Littler’s achievement is all the more remarkable considering the PDC rankings are determined by prize money earned from ranking tournaments over two years. At 18, he surpasses Michael van Gerwen, who claimed the top spot at 24 in 2014. “Being world number one is some achievement for Luke Littler, regardless of tonight’s result,” former BDO world champion Mark Webster noted. “To do it in less than two years is something remarkable. He knows how to get it done—he’s just a brilliant talent.”
But Littler’s path to the summit wasn’t without challenges. In his semi-final, he faced a sluggish start and a blistering performance from Noppert, trailing 8-6. Yet, he rallied spectacularly, winning 10 of the next 11 legs and finishing with a 102.62 average. Is this the mark of a true champion—the ability to turn a match around under pressure?
Meanwhile, Humphries fought valiantly to hold onto the number one spot, defeating Gerwyn Price 16-13 in a thrilling first semi-final. With a 106.25 average and 16 180s, Humphries will have one last chance to shine as the reigning world number one before the rankings officially update at midnight. Can he end his reign on a high note, or will Littler’s rise continue unchecked?
As the darts world holds its breath for tonight’s final, one thing is clear: Luke Littler’s ascent is a story of talent, determination, and sheer brilliance. But what do you think? Is Littler’s success a fluke, or is he here to dominate for years to come? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a debate!