Young darts sensation Luke Littler extended his remarkable journey at the PDC World Darts Championship with a convincing 4-1 victory over Matt Campbell in the third round on Wednesday.
Fresh out of school, the 16-year-old has become the breakout star of this year’s tournament, making history as the youngest player ever to reach the last 16. In the upcoming round, he is set to face either Jim Williams or the legendary Raymond van Barneveld.
Since his debut at the championship this year, Littler has gained immense popularity with fans at Alexandra Palace in north London, who passionately chanted his name during an emotional night for the teenager.
Speaking to CNN Sport before his match, Littler expressed his enjoyment of newfound fame, admitting to getting “goosebumps” on his way to the venue. He described the crowd’s quick support as “unbelievable.”
Despite the pressure, Littler displayed remarkable calmness, taking a three-set lead with his opponent unable to win a single leg in the opening two sets. Despite some nerves from his family on the sidelines, Littler continued to exhibit confidence, occasionally acknowledging them with fist pumps and expressions of disbelief at his performance.
While Campbell managed to secure a set in the fourth, Littler, 18 years his junior, held his ground and delighted the partisan crowd by regaining efficiency and clinching the match in style.
As his fans chanted, “You’ve got school in the morning,” Littler celebrated his match-winning dart, marking another memorable moment in his extraordinary run.