Luke Littler Secures Thrilling Win Against Stephen Bunting to Meet Van Gerwen in Exciting World Championship Final -

LITTLERMANIA continues to loom large over Ally Pally, as 17-year-old darting sensation Luke Littler from Warrington clinched a remarkable 6-1 victory against Stephen Bunting, securing his spot in a second consecutive world final.

While many of his contemporaries are occupied with A-level studies or apprenticeships, Luke Littler is fully immersed in his passion.

Luke Littler celebrated his entry into the second World Darts Championship final — Luke Littler celebrated his accomplishment of reaching the second World Darts Championship finalCredit: AP

Stephen Bunting, competing in his second semi-final, was outclassed — Stephen Bunting, participating in his second semi-final, faced a superior performance from LittlerCredit: Reuters

Littler’s next challenge at Ally Pally will be against Michael Van Gerwen, a three-time world champion and six-time finalist who made history as the youngest winner of this PDC event, claiming his first title at just 24 years old in 2014.

The world of Darts is thriving, largely thanks to Littler, who is set to celebrate his 18th birthday later this month.

He has partnered with Freddie Flintoff to produce a modern version of Bullseye, captivating a new generation with the chance to win thrilling prizes while throwing darts on prime-time television.

With an already impressive collection of titles to his name, Littler garners significant interest throughout the year.

Having earned over £1 million in prize money, he stands to gain an additional £500,000 should he prevail over Van Gerwen in the upcoming match.

In his bout against Bunting, Littler displayed unwavering focus, consistently applying pressure whenever his opponent sought an advantage.

This charismatic Liverpool fan is frequently spotted with a bright smile, which shone especially during the match, illustrating his authentic enjoyment of the contest.

This event has transformed into a beloved holiday tradition, marked by a lively atmosphere — akin to a jubilant celebration filled with antics and the chant ‘stand up if you love the darts’.

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Mutual respect was exchanged between Littler and Bunting on stage — Littler and Bunting exhibited mutual respect on stageCredit: Alamy

Littler will face Michael van Gerwen in the forthcoming final — Littler is geared up for an exciting encounter against Michael van Gerwen in the finalCredit: Getty

Fans are on their feet, relishing the darts, the camaraderie, and the quirky costumes.

Among the attendees, some donned outfits as ducks, bananas, and even HP sauce bottles, embracing the event’s playful spirit.

Stephen Bunting shares DIY techniques influencing his unique throwing style ahead of the World Darts Championship semi-final against Luke Littler

In the animated crowd at Ally Pally, few standout figures appear dressed in everyday clothing.

Despite its unusual allure, the spectacle of competitors in oversized outfits launching metal darts at small targets continues to enchant spectators.

Since Littler burst onto the scene last year, the event has soared to new heights.

Everyone loves a young sports prodigy, and British sports hasn’t witnessed such a remarkable talent since Wayne Rooney made headlines with a stunning goal on his Everton debut at just 16 years old.

Littler’s moniker, ‘Luke the Nuke,’ fittingly captures his explosive energy, propelling this event to new levels while often leaving his opponents scrambling.

Bunting had previously conquered two-time world champion Peter Wright to reach this stage but was left astonished by Littler’s mastery.

Littler celebrated with family and friends after his victory — The Nuke was celebrated by family and friends following his winCredit: PA

Strong emotions were exhibited on stage during the match with Bunting — Littler exhibited clear emotions during his contest against BuntingCredit: Getty

Interestingly, both Bunting and Littler seem older than their actual years — likely due to a lack of sunlight.

A viral moment underscored that Bunting is younger than Cristiano Ronaldo before this match.

Meanwhile, Van Gerwen – who convincingly conquered Chris Dobey 6-1 in his earlier semi-final – is well-known for his serious demeanor.

Regardless, Bunting remains unfazed by appearances, reveling in his most fruitful year to date, claiming the No. 5 rank in the world after winning the Masters championship in February.

Their two prior meetings were closely fought, with each boasting one win, but Littler had established himself as the frontrunner since defending champion Luke Humphries fell to Wright in the last 16.

As he approached the stage, Littler exuded confidence, welcomed by chants of ‘walking in a Littler Wonderland’ echoing throughout the venue.

Though initially unfazed, Bunting almost seized the first set before Littler triumphed with a double ten in that critical leg.

The young star swiftly took charge, breaking Bunting’s serve and subsequently demoralizing his opponent.

Bunting faced challenges against Littler's outstanding performance — Fan-favorite Bunting was bested by the remarkable LittlerCredit: AP

At the dawn of the third set, Littler executed a stunning 158 checkout with precision, making Bunting’s chances of a Club 18-30 getaway appear more realistic than vanquishing the young phenomenon.

A 4-0 rout seemed probable, but Littler faltered slightly, permitting Bunting, who struggled with crucial outer shots, to secure a double top and his first leg.

However, Bunting squandered a prime opportunity in the sixth set, failing to land three doubles, allowing Littler to clinch the deciding leg with a single shot on the bullseye.

In a flashy conclusion, Littler achieved an impressive 170 checkout in the penultimate leg, while Bunting, smiling, gestured an air-kick toward Littler, acknowledging the inevitable.