Luke Littler, who is too young to compete without a guardian, will take part in the PDC World Championship final.
After an incredible run to the final, Littler, 16, will battle for the largest prize in darts on Wednesday night at the Alexandra Palace. Luke Humphries, who has won 18 straight games and is currently ranked one in the world, is the guy obstructing the young phenomenon.
Littler is actually too young to attend the event on his own, despite having overcome all odds to get to the final. All patrons under the age of eighteen who attend the Ally Pally are required under the Professional Darts Corporation’s regulations to be accompanied by an adult.
“We ask that all parents/guardians are comfortable with the nature of the event before bringing children and that all under-18s are accompanied by at least one adult from their household or support bubble,” according to the PDC’s website advice.
Naturally, Littler is not subject to this rule; yet, his family and 21-year-old girlfriend Eloise are scheduled to witness him face Humphries in the championship match. Bookies had Humphries as the favourite for the titanic match. Humphries is the winner of the Players Championship, Grand Slam, and World Grand Prix.
Humphries, who is in incredible form, defeated Scott Williams 6-0 on Tuesday night at the Ally Pally in one of the best semi-final performances ever. Williams had defeated three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen, so that was quite an accomplishment.
However, Littler, who is competing in his first world final, will be sure to upset Humphries. Thus far, the teenager has defeated former world champion Rob Cross, five-time world champion Raymond van Barneveld, and UK Open champion Andrew Gilding.
“It is crazy to even think I am in the final on my debut,” Littler said to Sky Sports following his victory over Cross. I’m glad I won one game since it means I can now go all the way. It’s not simple. You are controlling Rob, a world champion who triumphed in his first match. There are no words for me.”
Littler went on to say of his last preparations, “I’ll be doing what I’ve been doing. I’ll get my ham and cheese omelette in the morning, come here, eat a pizza and then start working on the board. I’ve been doing that every day.”
Humphries is aware that defeating Littler will require his best effort. “I’ve seen the way he’s played many, many times, but coming on this stage it can be a lot tougher, but he’s just proven that he’s got a lot of bottle,” the guy said to Sky Sports. He will not be phased by anything.
“I’m going to have to play the most important game of my life. Though it will be difficult, I hope we can provide the public with one of the greatest global finals ever.”