Luke Littler hits scintillating nine-dart finish after being booed by Premier League crowd in Cardiff – before winning them over and claiming yet ANOTHER nightly win
Luke Littler Stuns with Nine-Darter Against Michael van Gerwen in Premier League Darts Final
Luke Littler delivered a sensational nine-dart finish in the Premier League Darts final against rival Michael van Gerwen, securing his third nightly victory of the season and further solidifying his dominance at the top of the table.
It marked the third nine-darter of this year’s Premier League campaign, following similar feats by Luke Humphries and Rob Cross in Brighton two weeks ago. However, Littler’s achievement was extra special—coming just nine days after his previous nine-darter at the Players Championship in Leicester. This time, it happened in front of a roaring crowd, sending the Welsh fans into a frenzy.
Littler’s Incredible Performance & Premier League Standings
Littler, affectionately known as “The Nuke”, produced a staggering 10 maximum 180s in the final and averaged an impressive 112.50, widening his lead at the top of the Premier League standings by six points.
For his stunning achievement, Littler will receive a set of 18ct gold darts worth £30,000 from sponsors BetMGM.
Despite Littler’s brilliance, van Gerwen fought hard to stay in the contest, still chasing his first nightly win of the season. However, he ultimately fell short in a 6-4 defeat.
Heading into Night 8 in Newcastle next Thursday, Littler will face Stephen Bunting in a quarter-final match-up based on league standings.
Littler Reflects on His Nine-Darter & Current Form
Speaking to Sky Sports after his victory, Littler admitted he had taken a break from practice leading up to the event:
“I have been playing very well. I must admit I haven’t picked my darts up since last Thursday. I had a week to chill, but to come here and win, I am comfortable.”
On whether he knew his final dart was in:
“I had no idea. You can see my face—it’s like, ‘Is it in?’ Yeah. I just want to get to the O2 as quickly as possible. I have put myself in a really good position. This year, I may as well try and stay No. 1.”
Littler also praised his finishing ability on the night but promised there was “plenty more to come”, with still nine weeks left in the season.
Predicting the Future? Littler’s Pre-Match Hint
Interestingly, Littler seemingly predicted his nine-darter before the match. When referee Owen Binks asked him on Instagram about his favorite way to hit the feat, Littler responded:
“My 9-darter in Leicester was 60-51-30, so take a hint.”
Sure enough, later that night, he delivered on his words in style.
Navigating the Boos & A Rivalry with Van Gerwen
Littler’s night began with some boos from the crowd as he walked out for his quarter-final match against Nathan Aspinall, who had vowed to be less friendly toward him on stage.
However, Littler took it in stride:
“We get booed as players. But once you hit a 180 or a nice finish… I think they’re on my side now.”
He then defeated Aspinall 6-3, averaging over 102, before breezing past Rob Cross in the semi-finals with an average of nearly 108, setting up his showdown with van Gerwen.
Van Gerwen’s Fight & Playoff Race Intensifies
Van Gerwen had a strong night himself, defeating Luke Humphries and Chris Dobey on his way to the final—his first of the season.
The seven-time Premier League champion battled hard in a thrilling rematch of their World Championship final, and even after Littler’s historic nine-darter, he refused to back down.
Despite falling short, van Gerwen strengthened his position in the playoff race ahead of next week. Meanwhile, World No. 1 Luke Humphries suffered a disappointing quarter-final exit at the hands of van Gerwen.
Littler’s Spectacular Finish & the Road Ahead
After hitting back-to-back 180s, Littler opted for the treble 20, treble 17, and double 15 route to complete his 141 checkout. Initially unsure if his final dart had landed, he leaped in celebration once referee Huw Ware confirmed the nine-darter. Even van Gerwen, despite his loss, couldn’t hide his admiration, offering a wry smile.
With another dazzling victory under his belt, Littler remains the player to beat as he continues his march toward the Premier League playoffs.