England’s Luke Humphries claimed his first PDC World Championship title in a thrilling final at Alexandra Palace, defeating 16-year-old sensation Luke Littler 7-4.
Littler wsa aiming to become the youngest world darts champion ever with his remarkable journey to the final.
However, Humphries, the pre-event favourite and recently crowned world number one, secured the victory after trailing 4-2. Humphries won five consecutive sets to clinch the title and the £500,000 first prize.
Littler’s impressive run to the final captured public attention over the past three weeks, but it was Humphries’ brilliance and cool head which in the end denied him the historic achievement.
Littler’s phenomenal performance in the tournament saw him climb more than 130 places to reach the world’s top 32.
Humphries dominated the final with 23 maximums and an average of 103.67.
Littler earned £200,000 for his efforts. His rise from unknown outsider to darts superstar was a highlight of the championship, which saw record-breaking viewing figures and widespread media coverage.
