Talking Points: Luke Littler destroys James Wade to win UK Darts Open as Man Utd loss spurs 18-year-old onto fifth major title

Luke Littler, 18, claimed the £110,000 jackpot in the event known as the “FA Cup of darts,” just after witnessing Ruben Amorim’s side lose to Fulham on penalties during his semi-final.

‘The Nuke’ delivered a dominant performance, hitting nine 180s and averaging 101. Reflecting on his semi-final, he said:

“During the second break, I heard that Manchester United lost, and it gave me an extra boost. I won the next five legs and got the job done. Before I walked on, the game went to penalties.”

“This is a title I’ve always wanted to win. It’s my third time here—I came as a 16-year-old two years ago, reached the quarter-finals last year, and now I’ve gone two steps further to lift the trophy.

“I had a job to do, and I just wanted to get my hands on the trophy. That’s another one ticked off the list.

“My focus now is on making the top four in the Premier League and qualifying for the O2. But up next is Brighton on Thursday, followed by the ProTour in Antwerp. It’s going to be a busy few weeks.

“I’ve always said my goal is to win one of every major.”

Littler was in unstoppable form from the start, firing a 180 in each of the opening legs to storm into a 5-0 lead at the first break—taking just over eight minutes.

He extended his ruthless streak, winning the next four legs to surge to an incredible 9-0 advantage. Wade, struggling with a limp and a cut finger, finally managed to land double five to avoid a whitewash. But Littler soon sealed victory with double six, securing yet another major title.

Wade reflected on his defeat, saying:

“It’s been a long time since I reached a final. I played well in the semi, but in the final, he completely ran me over.

“As the senior player, I got absolutely battered. It kills me to admit it, but fair play to him—right now, he’s probably the best or second-best player in the world.”