“He inspires me – The only reason I still watch darts is because of Luke Littler”: Former World Championship finalist full of praise for teenage superstar
Andy Hamilton, the former PDC World Championship finalist from 2007 (losing 7-6 to Raymond van Barneveld in a classic), has heaped unprecedented praise on 18-year-old sensation Luke Littler, declaring the teen prodigy his sole motivation for tuning into darts these days.
In a candid TalkSport interview on November 3, 2025, the 58-year-old Englishman – nicknamed The Hammer for his powerful throwing style – laid it bare:
“He inspires me – the only reason I still watch darts is because of Luke Littler.”
Hamilton, who retired from full-time play in 2014 after a career of highs (including a UK Open final) and heartbreaks, credited Littler’s fearless dominance and innovative flair for reigniting his passion. Littler’s 2025 haul – four major titles (World Championship, World Grand Prix, Premier League, and more) – has Hamilton hooked, especially that ruthless 6-1 demolition of World No. 1 Luke Humphries in the Grand Prix final.
Why Littler? Hamilton’s Breakdown
- Relentless Style: “He’s got that killer instinct – no fear, just pure attack. The way he finished Humphries? Brutal, but beautiful.”
- Innovation: Hamilton spotlighted Littler’s cheeky routes like bull-double eight for 170 checkouts: “He’s rewriting the game – kids in academies are copying him already.”
- Revitalizing Darts: “Littler’s brought the buzz back. Youth sign-ups are through the roof – he’s the face that sells the sport.”
Hamilton, now a pundit and coach, admitted darts had lost its spark for him post-retirement: “I tuned out… until The Nuke exploded. Now? I wouldn’t miss it.”
Littler’s 2025 Dominance: The Stats That Inspire
| Achievement | Details | Hamilton’s Take |
|---|---|---|
| Majors Won | 4 (Worlds, GP, PL, etc.) | “Four at 18? Insane – he’s Humphries’ nightmare.” |
| Grand Prix Final | 6-1 vs Humphries (104.5 avg) | “That was a statement – fearless from the off.” |
| Earnings | £1.5m+ | “Money’s nice, but his hunger? That’s what inspires.” |
| Youth Impact | Academies buzzing | “He’s got kids dreaming big – like I did.” |
The Bigger Picture: A Rivalry Reborn?
Hamilton’s words come amid Littler’s packed slate: the Grand Slam of Darts (starts Nov 8, Group E vs. Daryl Gurney opener), where a £250k winner’s cheque awaits. With Humphries lurking (Group A), expect fireworks – and perhaps more inspiration for The Hammer.
Littler, ever humble, reposted Hamilton’s clip: “Means a lot from a legend like Andy – keep watching! 👀”
From finalist to fanboy, Hamilton’s hooked – and Littler’s the bait. Who’s next to bow to The Nuke? 🎯
