In a surprising turn of events at the Bahrain Darts Masters, reigning world champion Luke Littler was eliminated in the quarter-finals by Gerwyn Price, who delivered a record-breaking performance. Price secured a 6-2 victory, setting a new tournament record with a three-dart average of 115.31, the highest in the event’s history. His exceptional finishing, with a 60% success rate on doubles, overshadowed Littler’s efforts.
Littler, who had recently clinched the PDC World Championship on January 3, 2025, expressed his disappointment following the match. He acknowledged feeling a bit rusty after his initial 6-3 win against Lourence Ilagan and had aimed to retain his Bahrain Masters title. Despite the setback, Littler remains optimistic, focusing on upcoming challenges, including the Dutch Darts Masters in Den Bosch.
The young prodigy’s early exit from the tournament was unexpected, especially considering his remarkable ascent in the darts world. At just 17 years old, Littler became the youngest ever PDC World Darts Champion earlier this month, defeating three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen 7–3 in sets. This victory not only earned him the prestigious Sid Waddell Trophy but also propelled him to a career-high ranking of second in the world, trailing only Luke Humphries.
Despite the loss, Littler’s impact on the sport is undeniable. His rapid rise has significantly boosted darts’ popularity, leading to increased television ratings and a lucrative £125 million TV deal with Sky Sports. To date, he has amassed over £1.43 million in prize money from various events, underscoring his talent and marketability.
Gerwyn Price’s victory over Littler marks a continuation of his resurgence in form. After taking a break in 2024 due to losing passion for the sport and dealing with ear issues, Price’s performance in Bahrain signifies a strong comeback. He went on to defeat Peter Wright in the semi-finals but ultimately lost to Stephen Bunting 7-4 in the final.
As Littler reflects on this defeat, he remains focused on refining his game and preparing for future competitions. His journey serves as a testament to the unpredictable nature of sports and the continuous drive athletes must possess to stay at the pinnacle of their discipline. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Littler will respond to this setback and continue his promising career in the world of darts.
