Luke Littler’s Historic Nine-Darter: A Career Highlight for Referee Huw Ware
Luke Littler made history on Thursday night, delivering a stunning nine-dart finish in the Premier League Darts. The moment was not only significant for the 18-year-old darts sensation but also for referee Huw Ware, who later reflected on the achievement as one of the highlights of his career.
A Night to Remember
The electrifying moment took place during the seventh night of the Premier League Darts, where Littler faced off against Michael van Gerwen. ‘The Nuke’ emerged victorious with a 6-4 win, marking his third televised nine-darter. The crowd at the Utilita Arena in Cardiff erupted in celebration as Littler sealed his third leg with a flawless sequence of T20, T17, and D15.
Ware, officiating the match, was visibly moved by the remarkable feat. Shortly after, he took to social media to express his admiration and gratitude for being part of such a historic event. He tweeted on X: “Not that this is about me, but calling a nine-darter in my home city is right up there with my career highlights. Well done @LukeTheNuke180.”
Littler’s Reaction and Ambitions
Littler’s impressive performance not only secured his win but also set a record as the first televised nine-darter to end on D15. Reflecting on his achievement during the Premier League Darts trophy presentation, he said:
“Yeah, I’ve been playing very well. I must admit I’ve not picked my darts up since last Thursday – I just had a week off to chill. But to come here and win, six points clear as you’ve just seen, so now I’m comfortable.”
When asked if he was certain his final dart had landed, Littler admitted: “No, I had no idea. I just had to wait for Huw to call it. You can see my face there. I was like, ‘Is it? Is it? Yeah.’”
Looking Ahead in the Premier League Darts
With this victory, Littler now holds a six-point lead over Luke Humphries at the top of the Premier League table, making his qualification for the play-off finals at the O2 Arena in May almost certain. Up next, he faces Stephen Bunting in the quarter-finals in Newcastle upon Tyne.
Discussing his ambitions, Littler added: “I just want to get to the O2 as quick as possible. I have put myself in a really good position and I do want to finish No. 1. I didn’t want No. 1 last year, but this year I want to try and stay there. I was happy with my doubles tonight, but there is plenty more to come.”
As the Premier League Darts continues, all eyes will be on Littler to see if he can maintain his dominant form and secure the top spot.
