Luke Littler made history last week in Cardiff by hitting a record-breaking nine-darter against Michael van Gerwen, an unforgettable moment that referee Huw Ware now calls one of the highlights of his career.
The electrifying moment took place during the Premier League Darts Night Seven final, where Littler defeated Van Gerwen 6-4. As he completed his flawless leg with a T20, T17, and D15, the crowd at the Utilita Arena erupted in celebration. Even Ware, known for his composed officiating, struggled to contain his excitement.
Following the match, Ware took to social media to express his joy and gratitude for being part of the moment. Posting on X, he wrote: “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 achievement was particularly special as it marked the first-ever televised nine-darter to finish on D15. Speaking after being awarded the Premier League Darts trophy, Littler reflected on his performance: “I’ve been playing very well. I must admit, I’ve not picked up my darts 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, makes me 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
Littler’s victory puts him six points ahead of Luke Humphries at the top of the Premier League Darts table, all but securing his place in the O2 Arena play-offs this May. His next challenge comes in Newcastle, where he faces winless Stephen Bunting in Week Eight’s quarter-finals.
Regarding his ambitions for the rest of the season, Littler stated: “I just want to get to the O2 as quickly as possible. I’ve put myself in a really good position, and this year, I want to stay at No. 1.”
