Despite the distraction, Littler went on to secure an 11–7 victory over Wade to retain the title he won last year. Although he triumphed again, the match was far closer than the 11–2 win he recorded in the previous final.
Before Littler, the last player to successfully defend the UK Open crown was Michael van Gerwen, who achieved the feat a decade ago with consecutive wins in 2015 and 2016. Prior to that, only Phil Taylor (2009 and 2010) and Raymond van Barneveld (2006 and 2007) had managed back-to-back titles. Taylor still holds the record as the competition’s most successful player, winning five times overall in 2003, 2005, 2009, 2010 and 2013.
Littler has now joined an exclusive group of players to win the event multiple times. Wade is also among them, having lifted the trophy in 2008, 2011 and 2021.
Speaking after the win, Littler admitted the tournament had not been his strongest in terms of averages but praised his determination throughout the event.
He said: “It feels amazing. I don’t think it has been my best tournament average-wise, but I’ve dug deep in every match and managed to come out with the win.
“That’s what James does — he’s always right behind you. I told him after the match that if he had hit those double tops, it could have been a completely different game. We always have good battles. I joked with him, ‘back-to-back… you can get me next year.’”
Littler also revealed that matching van Gerwen’s achievement of defending the title had been a personal goal.
“Before the tournament I saw on social media that the last player to go back-to-back was Michael ten years ago — the same situation as the World Championship with Gary Anderson. That became my target. But I always say you have to take it game by game. That’s what we did, and now I’ve done it back-to-back.”
The young star also pointed to his recent form after winning his first night of the 2026 Premier League Darts earlier in the week.
“I don’t think many people expected me to come here and win. I don’t think many expected me to win the Premier League night last week either. But I can say it now — I’m back to my best.”
Wade, meanwhile, was gracious in defeat. Speaking on ITV4, he admitted Littler deserved the victory.
“Luke was just too good for me in the end,” Wade said. “Maybe I was a little bit tired — I am a bit older than him. I couldn’t quite find my best, but fair play to him. He does what he does and he makes it look easy.
“I missed a few chances on doubles, and nobody enjoys losing. But over the last 18 months I feel like I’ve been playing well.
“Luke is the best player in the world right now, and unfortunately I’ve lost to him in three finals. I hate losing more than anyone, but today the better player won.”
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