Luke Littler stands one win away from reinforcing his status as one of the most exciting talents the sport has seen as he prepares to face Gian van Veen in the PDC World Championship final on Saturday.
At just 18, Littler could become part of an elite group of players to win the world title more than once. While Phil Taylor’s record haul of world crowns remains distant, comparisons with the sport’s greats underline the scale of Littler’s rapid rise.
The teenager swept aside Ryan Searle in the semi-finals to reach his third world final in as many appearances at Alexandra Palace. His rise to world number one and consistent dominance have drawn parallels with the peak years of Taylor and Michael van Gerwen, according to PDC rankings and tournament records.
Form that sets him apart
Littler’s performances over the past two seasons have marked him out as the standout player on the circuit. His television averages, title count and regular nine-dart finishes place him in rare company, based on PDC match statistics.
Former professionals have highlighted how effortlessly he appears to dismantle experienced opponents, suggesting his current level may still not be his ceiling.
Van Veen’s breakthrough run
Standing in Littler’s way is Gian van Veen, whose progress to the final has been one of the stories of the tournament. The Dutchman has beaten Luke Humphries and Gary Anderson on his run to the showpiece match, according to match results released by the PDC.
Van Veen’s rise follows a landmark year in which he claimed his first major PDC title at the European Championship. His performances at Alexandra Palace have regularly seen him average over 100, underlining his credentials as a genuine contender.
From struggle to spotlight
Van Veen’s journey has also been shaped by his recovery from dartitis earlier in his career, a condition that once threatened his future in the sport. His presence in the final marks a sharp contrast to those struggles and highlights his resilience, as reflected in recent tournament coverage by broadcasters.
Victory would make him only the third Dutch player to lift the Sid Waddell Trophy, joining an exclusive national list.
A rivalry in the making
With Littler aged 18 and Van Veen 23, the final is being viewed as more than a one-off contest. Both players are expected to shape the sport for years, with rankings data indicating Van Veen would rise to world number two with a win.
Whether Littler adds another title or Van Veen completes his remarkable rise, the final promises a compelling contest that could define the next era of professional darts.
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