Luke Littler cemented his status as darts' brightest star with a spectacular 7-1 victory over Gian van Veen in the World Darts Championship 2026 final at London's Alexandra Palace. The 18-year-old phenom becomes the first back-to-back champion since Gary Anderson in 2016, securing his second world title in just three appearances.
Record-Breaking Performance
Littler delivered a masterclass, averaging 106.02 and landing 16 maximum 180s. His clinical finish included a stunning 147 checkout to seal the championship, capping off a dominant display that saw him claim seven consecutive sets after dropping the opener.
"The tears showed what this means," said Sky Sports commentator John McDonald during Littler's emotional celebration.
Historic Achievements
- Fourth player to win consecutive titles (joining Taylor, Lewis, Anderson)
- Youngest two-time world champion in PDC history
- First recipient of the tournament's £1 million top prize
Match Analysis
Despite van Veen's strong start and spectacular 145 checkout in the second set, Littler's relentless scoring proved unstoppable. The Englishman produced six ton-plus finishes, including a crucial 170 "Big Fish" in the third set that shifted momentum decisively.
| Tournament | Year | Result |
|---|---|---|
| World Youth Championship | 2023 | Littler 6-4 |
| UK Open | 2025 | Littler 10-4 |
| World Championship | 2026 | Littler 7-1 |
The victory extends Littler's hold on the world No. 1 ranking and completes his collection of every major televised title. Fans can relive the action on Sky Sports, with the 2026 Premier League Darts lineup announcement scheduled for Monday.
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