Darts fans in meltdown as Luke Littler knocks out Gian van Veen despite highest EVER World Grand Prix average
Darts Fans Lose It as Luke Littler Stuns Gian van Veen Despite Record-Breaking Grand Prix Average
Darts fans were sent into a frenzy as Luke Littler delivered a sensational performance to knock out Gian van Veen in the first round of the 2025 World Grand Prix on October 7, overcoming the Dutchman’s historic 106.47 average—the highest ever recorded in the tournament’s history. The 18-year-old world No. 2 clinched a 2-0 sets victory (3-1, 3-2) at Leicester’s Mattioli Arena, marking his first-ever win in the double-in/double-out event and sparking a social media meltdown under the hashtag #LittlerVeen.
A Record-Shattering Clash
The highly anticipated matchup between Littler and the 20-year-old van Veen, the 2024 World Youth Champion, delivered one of the greatest first-round matches in Grand Prix history. Van Veen, who entered with a 4-3 head-to-head edge over Littler, including two recent European Tour wins (one with a 110 average), produced an extraordinary 106.47 average, surpassing Alan Warriner-Little’s 2001 record of 106.45. His performance included 10 legs above 100 and a 147 checkout, but Littler countered with a 105.58 average—the third-highest in tournament history behind van Veen and Gary Anderson’s 104.86 from 2013—and clutch finishes like a 151 and 144 checkout to seal the match.
Littler’s precision on doubles, hitting D16 and D10 with ease, and his ability to start legs with three 140s in the double-in format, proved decisive as van Veen managed only two of eight legs despite his record-breaking scoring. The match, described by Sky Sports’ Paul Nicholson as “one of the best first-rounders ever,” showcased Littler’s maturity in overcoming a format he previously admitted to disliking after early exits in 2023 and 2024.
Fan Meltdown: Social Media Explodes
The darts community erupted on X, with #LittlerVeen trending globally as fans marveled at the match’s intensity. “Gian hits 106.47—the highest Grand Prix average EVER—and Littler STILL wins? Nuke’s unreal!” one user posted, amassing thousands of likes. Another wrote: “Van Veen threw the kitchen sink, and Littler just laughed it off—144 checkout to close it!” Fans also praised van Veen’s effort: “Heartbreak for Gian, but what a performance—106.47 is insane!” The match’s quality drew comparisons to classic PDC battles, with Glen Durrant calling it “a new benchmark for first-round drama.”
Context and Stakes: Littler’s Redemption Amid Off-Stage Drama
Littler’s victory was particularly poignant given his struggles with the Grand Prix’s unique format, having crashed out in the first round in both 2023 and 2024. His post-match comments reflected relief: “Best I’ve ever played in this format—Gian pushed me to my limit.” The win came hours after Littler announced his split from ZXF Management, teasing a new team with a cryptic “No one knows,” adding intrigue to his campaign.
Next Steps: Littler’s Title Hunt
Littler, now chasing the £120,000 winner’s prize in the £600,000 event, faces the winner of Peter Wright vs. defending champion Mike De Decker in the second round, with a potential quarterfinal against Michael van Gerwen or Josh Rock looming. His ability to handle van Veen’s onslaught, despite the Dutchman’s pre-match warning about Littler being “scared” of the format, signals his readiness for the elite. With his 2025 Triple Crown (World Championship, Premier League, World Matchplay) and £1.5 million in earnings, Littler’s Grand Prix breakthrough has fans dreaming of another major title. As one fan put it: “Littler vs. a 106.47 average? He’s not human!”
