Darts News | Luke Littler is crowned world champion again

Luke Littler 7 - 1 Gian van Veen

Luke Littler delivered a performance of authority to overwhelm Gian van Veen and retain the PDC World Championship title at Alexandra Palace.

Author | Amy W

The 18 year old became only the fourth player to defend the crown, joining Phil Taylor, Adrian Lewis and Gary Anderson in an exclusive club. It was a second triumph in just his third appearance on the sport’s biggest stage, underlining the pace at which Littler’s reputation continues to grow.

Only Taylor, with 14 titles, and Michael van Gerwen, on three, now sit ahead of him in the list of PDC world champions. While Taylor’s record still appears distant, the quality of Littler’s display ensured that talk of how far he might go will only intensify.

Van Veen was left chasing shadows 

Littler maintained an average above 107 for long stretches, eventually finishing on 106.02. The Dutchman’s own near 100 average was impressive but proved nowhere near enough to stem the flow.

With the outcome beyond doubt, Littler provided a flourish to match the occasion, checking out 147 to seal victory before roaring towards a crowd that had carried him through the final.

Emotion followed quickly. With the £1m prize secured, Littler was embraced by Van Veen before receiving the Sid Waddell Trophy from Sir Chris Hoy, tears marking the moment as another landmark in a career that continues to accelerate at remarkable speed.

Best reaction

This was how one MP responded to Littler's victory.

A huge congratulations to Warrington's own Luke Littler, retaining his PDC World Championship title and in absolutely sensational style! What a start to 2026 for the 18 year old 🎯🏆☢️

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— Charlotte Nichols MP (@charlotte2153.bsky.social) 3 January 2026 at 21:52

After the match, fans spoke positively regarding the losing finalist. In his post match press conference, Van Veen said: " "I am disappointed with the result, but I'm very proud of my achievements in this tournament."