#luke-littler

#luke-littler

Few sports stars in history are so precocious that their place in the pantheon is assured by the time they are 18. Pele was one. Nadia Comaneci another. Boris Becker too. Now you can add Luke Littler to that list. Most experts had expected Gian van Veen to give Littler a proper test. He did. For three sets. Then this final became a rout. After his 7-1 dismantling, Van Veen was asked whether Littler was unstoppable. It felt like it, came the sad reply.

Alexandra Palace and darts go hand in hand. The north London darting destination is practically a Christmas staple: every December, fans come together for the PDC World Darts Championships, which dates back to 1963 but has been held at Ally Pally since 2007. And now it's been confirmed that the PDC tournament is staying in north London. A five-year deal has officially been agreed at the 'Palace of the People', meaning Ally Pally will host the World Darts Championship until at least 2031.

World darts champion Luke Littler was spotted celebrating Manchester United's 4-1 victory at Wolves with the away fans on Monday - but how did he get a ticket? It is not uncommon for celebrity football fans to be captured by cameras among the crowds on matchdays. Oasis' Noel Gallagher was at Craven Cottage for Manchester City's recent 5-4 win over Fulham, while England legend Alan Shearer regularly enjoys a trip with the Newcastle faithful.

It is only the second time in 13 years that Van Gerwen, who has won the competition more than any other player, has not made the finals night.