Teenage darts sensation Luke Littler has secured a place in the World Darts Championship semi-finals at Alexandra Palace, guaranteeing himself a minimum prize of £100,000.
The 17-year-old prodigy will face Stephen Bunting in the last four, with his sights set on reaching the final and a potential £500,000 top prize.
If Littler finishes as runner-up, he would take home £200,000, adding to an already impressive debut campaign where he has earned £618,500 from major events.
The winner of Thursday night’s semi-final will advance to face either three-time champion Michael van Gerwen or Chris Dobey in the final.
Luke Littler has made a substantial amount already at the World Darts Championship
Reuters
Littler showcased his exceptional talent in a commanding quarter-final victory over Nathan Aspinall on New Year’s Day, maintaining an impressive average of 101.54.
The teenage star’s clinical performance included winning 10 of his 19 legs in 12 darts or fewer.
His remarkable form throughout the tournament has seen him amass 51 maximum scores, putting him in prime position to claim the competition’s Ballon d’Art title.
The victory continues Littler’s stellar run at Alexandra Palace, where he has previously defeated Ryan Meikle, Ian White, and Ryan Joyce en route to the semi-finals.
Speaking after his victory, Littler expressed his delight at reaching the semi-finals. “It feels amazing, the perfect start to 2025, and it’s sinking in now: two tournaments, two semi-finals, and a step closer,” he told Sky Sports.
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Luke Littler made a whopping amount by beating Nathan Aspinall – and could earn even more
Reuters
The youngster remains confident about crowd support ahead of his clash with Bunting. “I can see quite a few Nuke shirts in here, so I think I’ve got on the better!” he said.
Bunting secured his place in the semi-final with a comprehensive 5-2 victory over Peter Wright on New Year’s Day.
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Stephen Bunting is set to face Luke Littler in the semi-final
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The 39-year-old admitted to pre-match nerves before his quarter-final triumph. “In the back room, I felt really nervous, on edge,” Bunting revealed to Sky Sports.
“Peter Wright is a fan favourite and he is my son’s favourite player. I felt sorry for my son, but I knew the crowd was going to turn pivotal in the middle of the game,” he added.
Bunting emphasised his focus on taking each match individually. “Each and every game I have just focused on that opponent. The crowd, unbelievable again. Let’s go Bunting mental!”
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