Seventeen-year-old Luke Littler, the newly minted PDC World Darts Championship holder, is facing an unusual hurdle despite his recent triumph. Littler, who secured his victory against Michael van Gerwen with a 7-3 win, is currently unable to purchase darts in UK shops due to a little-known regulation. His rapid rise in the world of darts includes claiming 11 PDC titles since turning professional in 2024, propelling him to the second spot in the PDC Order of Merit, just behind Luke Humphries. This achievement also came with a significant £500,000 prize, marking his success on the global stage.
Despite his remarkable accomplishments and substantial earnings in the sport, Littler’s age poses a practical complication when it comes to buying his essential darts. In the UK, it is illegal for individuals under 18 to purchase age-restricted items, which include darts due to their sharp nature categorizing them as potentially dangerous weapons. Violating this law can result in a penalty of £80 for retailers, with potential fines reaching up to £5,000 if darts are sold to a minor. As Littler does not reach the age of 18 until January 21, he falls under this restriction.
Further restrictions due to his age include being unable to attend a darts match unaccompanied, as under-18s are required to have adult supervision. Littler, who hails from Warrington, often travels to tournaments with his parents, who could easily facilitate any necessary dart purchases. Prior to his recent World Championship win, Littler had already amassed a career total of £1.01 million in winnings from various tournaments, with substantial earnings in 2024 alone, including a runner-up finish in the World Championship.
His success has not only brought financial rewards but also attracted lucrative sponsorship deals from brands like Target Darts, BoohooMAN, and The Sidemen. These partnerships have further propelled his recognition in the darts world, alongside his impressive tournament performances. As Littler approaches his 18th birthday, the obstacles related to purchasing darts will soon be a thing of the past, allowing him to continue his meteoric rise in the sport.
Despite the challenges posed by age restrictions, Littler’s talent and determination have seen him excel in the fiercely competitive world of darts. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring young athletes looking to break into professional sports and reminds us that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. The future looks bright for this young darts prodigy as he navigates the complexities of fame and success in his chosen field.