Littler storms to second world darts crown

Teenage darts sensation Luke Littler stormed to a second consecutive world title with a demolition of Dutchman Gian van Veen at London’s Alexandra Palace on Saturday.

Littler became a national phenomenon in England with his shock run to the final as a 16-year-old two years ago and has since gone on to dominate the sport.

The world number one bounced back from dropping the opening set to romp to a 7-1 victory and scoop the record £1 million ($1.3 million) in prize money on offer to the winner.

“The first time was so nice, I had to do it twice,” said the 18-year-old.

“It’s very special but we’ve got to keep going, adding more titles. We’re still on this rollercoaster.”

Littler was rarely troubled throughout the tournament at the oche but had to overcome an uncomfortable relationship with the crowd at the annual alcohol-fuelled festival of darts.

“You guys pay for the tickets and you pay for my prize money so thank you, thank you for my money! Thank you for booing me,” Littler snapped after his last-16 clash against former world champion Rob Cross.

The pressure on his young shoulders finally showed as Littler broke down in tears during his celebrations seconds after a securing the title with a 147 finish.

At just 23, Van Veen is another rising star of the sport but even the European champion had no answer to Littler’s relentless accuracy.

The Englishman hit 16 maximum scores of 180 to record a three-dart average of over 106.