LUKE LITTLER has embarked on an extraordinary journey in 2024, with unwavering support from his parents at every turn.

This article explores the lives of darts prodigy’s parents, Anthony Buckley and Lisa Littler, as Luke aims for the 2024/25 World Darts Championship.

Luke Littler with his parents Anthony Buckley and Lisa Littler

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Luke Littler with his parents Anthony Buckley and Lisa LittlerCredit: Twitter

Who Are Luke Littler’s Parents?

Luke Littler’s parents are Anthony Buckley and Lisa Littler.

Beyond being his parents, Anthony and Lisa are also his most ardent supporters.

They have championed Luke’s passion for darts since he was a child.

To enhance Luke’s skills, his parents invested in a genuine dartboard and brought him to local pubs for practice sessions.

What Do Anthony Buckley and Lisa Littler Do?

Luke’s father, Anthony, is employed as a taxi driver in Warrington, Cheshire.

Conversely, his mother, Lisa, works at a shop that specializes in scented candles.

Reflecting on Luke’s journey in the sport, Buckley mentioned in an interview with The Times: “He was a brilliant footballer and loved football, like many children. But at nine, I suggested he focus on darts.”

“He could have played football for enjoyment, but if there was a darts competition on the weekend, that needed to be his main focus.”

“I saw his potential in darts — and he has proven me right.”

“After I motivated him to continue with darts, he was fully committed. We entered every competition we could find online.”

“Often, we would be up at 7 am on my only day off to take him to darts practice. There were no lazy mornings for us.”

What Age Are Luke Littler’s Parents?

As of now, Luke’s father Anthony is 43 years old.

His mother, Lisa, is 40 years old.

On social media, she frequently celebrates her son’s accomplishments in the sport.

Lisa was also the one who posted an adorable video of 18-month-old Luke laughing while throwing darts in his diaper.

When he first started coming as a toddler, it was clear he was extraordinary and kept improving every year.

Karl Holden

Are Anthony Buckley and Lisa Littler Involved in Luke’s Darts Career?

A video surfaced in December 2023 showing a young Luke, at only 18 months, throwing darts at a magnetic board.

This board was a gift from his father, Anthony Buckley, who has casually enjoyed darts himself.

Even at such a young age, Luke’s darting ability was evident.

Seven years later, he began training at the well-known St Helens Darts Shop, which has developed many professional players, including Michael Smith, Dave Chisnall, and Stephen Bunting.

Luke has been playing darts since he was a nappy-wearing one-year-old

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Luke has been playing darts since he was a nappy-wearing one-year-old

Luke’s childhood coach, Karl Holden, who trained him at the shop northeast of Liverpool city center, observed that he was already excelling against his peers at just nine years old.

He remarked, “He has been here since he was nine. We are all incredibly proud of him.”

“From the moment he stepped through the door as a young child, it was obvious he had extraordinary potential, and he improved year after year.”

“We moved him up to the U14s when he was only nine, and within three months, he was winning easily against everyone.”

He added, “At nine, he was already remarkable. Before he turned 11, he displayed extraordinary talent.”

“He is truly a natural talent; I would liken him to the (Cristiano) Ronaldo of darts.”

“At just 16, he is already ranked among the top players globally.”

By the age of 11, he was competing against and defeating adult players.

The following year, he faced Humphries in a competition on Hayling Island — an opponent he met again in the world championship final, which he lost 7-4.

This encounter took place in November 2019, as Humphries, now 28, triumphed over Littler.

Looking back, Littler stated: “I lost in the quarter-finals during the Hayling Island competition to Luke Humphries; I missed a few chances that could have put me in the lead, including a bull for a 164, but I had a great match.”

Discussing his remarkable journey with the BBC, Littler shared: “At four, I upgraded to a professional board. Since I was 18 months old, I’ve been practicing continuously.”

“After relocating to Warrington when I was around eight or nine, we started going to pubs four to five times a week to practice.”

Littler has gained many supporters following his remarkable ascent, but his father Anthony has always been his most devoted fan.

A social media post from Junior Darts Co back in 2017 featured Anthony proclaiming, “Keep an eye out for 10-year-old Luke Littler this year!”

Both of Luke’s parents were present at Ally Pally, cheering him on during his incredible run in the 2023/24 PDC World Darts Championship.

After his victory against Campbell, Littler expressed: “I nearly teared up when I saw my mom in the audience.”

“She looked anxious, hiding her face with her hands. I reassured her, saying, ‘The dream continues,’ and she repeated it back to me.”

Luke is set to compete in the Darts Premier League 2024, having secured his spot in the lineup after his impressive showing at the World Championships earlier this year.