Luke Littler Claims World Matchplay Title, Celebrates with Girlfriend

Luke Littler achieved a remarkable feat on July 30, 2023, by becoming the youngest-ever champion of the World Matchplay. The 18-year-old darting prodigy secured a stunning victory over James Wade, triumphing 18-13 at the iconic Winter Gardens in Blackpool. Littler’s victory earned him a prize of £200,000 and marked a significant moment in darting history, as he surpassed Wade’s previous record as the youngest champion.

The match was not without its challenges. Littler found himself trailing 5-0 early on but demonstrated resilience and skill to mount an impressive comeback. This win solidifies his status as a rising star in the sport, showcasing his ability to recover from difficult situations during crucial matches.

After the final, during an on-stage interview with Sky Sports reporter Polly James, Littler reflected on the emotional support from his family and girlfriend. He expressed gratitude for the presence of his loved ones, stating, “I am just so happy… I have definitely put them through it in training and in games.” His girlfriend, 19-year-old beautician Faith Millar, joined him on stage, highlighting their supportive relationship. The couple, first spotted together in May, has grown closer, with Millar traveling to events to cheer on Littler.

In a light-hearted moment, Littler revealed that his mother had nearly suffered a heart attack during earlier matches. He humorously recounted his own anxious experiences, particularly against Jermaine Wattimena, saying, “At 5-0 down once again I said to myself, ‘You’ve been here before, what are you doing?’” This self-motivation played a crucial role in his comeback.

Demonstrating maturity beyond his years, Littler shared insights into his mindset throughout the tournament. He acknowledged previous difficulties but emphasized that the past week had reinforced his confidence as a player. “There’s been a few times in the past where I’ve got myself back into the game,” he noted. “But the past week has really shown me… I can come back from 5-0 down or from 7-3 down.”

Looking ahead, Littler expressed his ambition to win major titles, stating, “I always said to myself, as long as I win one of every major then I’ll be happy.” With his remarkable victory at the World Matchplay, he has taken a significant step toward achieving that goal.

The atmosphere in the Winter Gardens was electric as Littler celebrated his victory, showcasing the passion that darts fans have for the sport. With his impressive performance and supportive relationship, Luke Littler has firmly established himself as a contender to watch in future tournaments.