Luke Littler: 16-year-old darts player ‘The Nuke’ taking the world by storm with his skill and appearance

A 16-year-old darts player has sent the world into a spin and for two completely different reasons.

Luke Littler has charged through to the second round of the World Darts Championship, disposing of players over twice his age.

He’s now built himself a bit of a cult following as people eagerly watch his underdog story play out in darts’ premier knockout tournament.

However, despite being too young to celebrate with a pint or even carry gambling sponsors on his sleeves, some have been left to question just how old UK-born Littler actually is because of his ‘elderly’ appearance.

The Professional Darts Corporation has been inundated with comments on social media doubting the age of the young talent.

“Someone needs to check his ID,” one wrote

“There’s no way he’s 16😂😂😂😂,” said another.

“16 years old and looks 35. Perfect darts player genetics.”

Despite the commentary about his age, Littler has been displaying enormous skill and temperament on the world stage, defeating Dutchman Christian Kist with an impressive average of 106.12, which included an incredible seven 180s.

Littler again stunned fans with a comprehensive second-round 3-1 win over Andrew Gilding, which included only five 180s this time at an average of 92.

Many avid darts fans are setting themselves up for a big tournament: “If he goes on and wins the whole thing, It will be the best underdog story ever”.

He’s gone from a 66-1 outsider to a possible 10-1 contender against such massive names as Michael van Gerwin.

Littler will face off with Canadian Matt Campbell in the third round of the Ally Pally’s showpiece tournament.

Speaking after his dream win, Littler said he’ll have “another kebab tonight”.

“When I went 2-0 up, I lost all my energy,” Littler said.

“When Andrew got the setback, I didn’t want to go 2-2. I was nervous as it was. I don’t know how I got it over the line, but I’ve done it.

“I told my manager earlier, “I could win with a 50 average. I’m not bothered” because I know Andrew’s pace. He was pinging tops, here, there and everywhere. But he did let me in, and I took my chances.”

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