Luke Littler came close to sporting immortality at just 16 years old.
Luke Littler’s incredible journey at the World Darts Championship came to an end on Thursday when Luke Humphries, the overwhelming favorites in the event, defeated him 7–4. Littler acknowledges that he was “angry” at losing numerous legs on his throw, despite being happy of everything he had accomplished at the age of just sixteen.
Littler got off to a fast start and led the match 4–2, but Humphries responded with a five-set burst, winning seven sets to four to win his first global title and the top ranking in the world. Both players averaged above 100 in the thrilling nip-and-tuck match that will go down as an all-time classic conclusion.
Littler remarked, “You can’t be angry with yourself to lose at that stage.” “I was mainly upset because I lost a lot of legs on my throw. That one really got on my nerves.
“But Luke deserves it, so props to him. Top 32 and runner-up on my debut makes me delighted. It’s astounding. We don’t know if I’ll make it to a final in another five or ten years. Still, I’d rank as a runner-up. I want to go win it now.”
“I’ve won six games here, so why can’t I come back and win seven in the future years? I am currently in the top 32, so I may be in everything. I have gained a lot of experience and stage experience. I’ve had the most amazing three to four weeks, and I’m eager to get home. I apologies for not being able to fulfil the crowd’s requests.
The match’s pivotal moment occurred when Littler paused to check the score after hitting two treble 18s, needing a double two to tie the seventh set and increase his lead to 5-2. Humphries was able to close the gap as the teenage wonder lost his rhythm and narrowly missed the red.
Littler would never win another set after this because, true to his moniker, “Cool Hands” pulled off an incredible comeback under extreme duress.
Humphries remarked, “I could not put into words how great this feels.” He’s going to rule the darts world, so I felt like I had to win this one. He was unrelenting even when I had the upper hand.
“He is an amazing talent, and I had to win this one today. I’m confident he will win a lot of matches. I just adore the child; he is a true credit. At his age, we will never again see someone like him. To step up on the international stage and throw those darts in the championship game is quite remarkable. It’s special, so I hope he plays in everything.