Luke Littler: How close is teenage star to world No 1 and when can he overtake Luke Humphries after World Matchplay win in Blackpool?
Luke Littler, the 18-year-old darts sensation, has been tipped to become the world No. 1 in the PDC Order of Merit, potentially overtaking Luke Humphries before the World Darts Championship in December 2025, following his World Matchplay victory in Blackpool on July 27, 2025. Littler’s 18-13 win over James Wade earned him the £200,000 prize and the Phil Taylor Trophy, completing the PDC Triple Crown and narrowing the gap to Humphries to £249,750 as of September 1, 2025 (skysports.com, September 1, 2025). Experts, including former world champion Mark Webster, predict Littler could claim the top spot soon, stating, “He’ll be world No. 1 soon, I’m sure” (skysports.com, July 28, 2025). This article examines Littler’s progress, potential timelines, and how fans can follow his journey.
Littler’s Path to No. 1
Littler’s World Matchplay triumph, where he averaged 107.24 and hit a record 17 180s, marked his sixth PDC major TV title and solidified his No. 2 ranking with £1,533,000 in prize money (skysports.com, September 1, 2025). Humphries, the current No. 1, holds £1,782,750 but lost £40,000 in rankings points after a first-round exit in Blackpool, compared to his 2023 semi-final run (skysports.com, July 28, 2025). The PDC Order of Merit is based on prize money earned over a two-year period, and Littler’s recent £110,000 win at the Flanders Darts Trophy further closed the gap (skysports.com, September 1, 2025).
Humphries faces pressure to defend £400,000 from his 2023 titles (World Grand Prix, Grand Slam of Darts, Players Championship Finals, and World Championship), while Littler’s earnings are pure profit, as he did not compete in majors before 2024 (bbc.co.uk, July 30, 2025). Webster noted, “He’s not even done his two-year cycle… You’d think he’s going to be No. 1 in the coming months” (skysports.com, July 28, 2025).
When Could Littler Overtake Humphries?
Littler could seize the No. 1 spot as early as the World Grand Prix (October 6-12, 2025) if he wins the £120,000 prize and Humphries exits early, especially if Littler is within £232,000 by then (skysports.com, July 28, 2025). Further opportunities include four Players Championship events, the German Darts Championship (October 12-14, £30,000 prize), and the European Championship (October 25-28, £120,000 prize). A successful World Championship title defense (£500,000) would guarantee Littler the top spot, regardless of Humphries’ performance (greatdriffieldradio.co.uk, July 28, 2025). Littler himself said, “Provisional No. 1 for the worlds if Luke doesn’t defend all that prize money… I’d love to be No. 1” (fosse107.co.uk, July 28, 2025).
Fan and Media Reactions
Fans and analysts are buzzing, with @DartsOrakel tweeting, “Littler’s 101.19 rolling average is unreal! He’s coming for No. 1 ☢️ #Darts” (August 21, 2025). Sky Sports wrote, “Littler’s record-breaking run isn’t stopping—he’s closing on Humphries fast” (skysports.com, July 28, 2025). @DartsFanatic tweeted, “Luke Littler at 18 chasing No. 1? Insane talent! 🔥 #WorldMatchplay” (July 28, 2025).
Littler’s World Matchplay win has positioned him as the favorite to overtake Humphries, potentially by October or December 2025. His relentless form and upcoming opportunities make the No. 1 spot within reach. Follow updates on pdc.tv or @OfficialPDC on X.
