Littler thrashes Wade to win UK Open in style

World darts champion Luke Littler secured his first title at the UK Open, defeating James Wade with an overwhelming 11-2 victory in Minehead. Littler's performance was impressive, building a significant advantage from the start by winning nine consecutive legs, making the outcome of the match almost a foregone conclusion. His composed demeanor and accurate throws clearly rattled his opponent.

Wade had previously eliminated world number one Luke Humphries in a thrilling quarter-final and easily defeated Josh Rock in the semi-final. However, the 41-year-old veteran, who had won the event in 2008, 2011, and 2021, seemed powerless against Littler's superb skills. He struggled to find his rhythm and consistency throughout the final match.

The Warrington teenager averaged 101.50, while Wade's score was a below-par 88.06. Littler finished the match with a 16-dart leg and closed out with a double six, winning the £110,000 top prize. Wade's poor performance also made Littler's task much easier, with a pitiful 11.76% checkout success rate, highlighting his nervousness in the final.

"I had to get the job done, I just wanted to pick up the trophy, and now I can tick it off the list," Littler said in an interview with ITV4. "This is one I've always wanted to win. This is my third time here, I came here two years ago when I was 16, I got to the quarter-finals last year, and this year I've gone one step further and won it." He expressed his joy and relief at finally achieving this long-held ambition.

Wade had a poor start, missing a double eight to win the first leg, and Littler punished him, securing an early break. Subsequently, Littler took a 3-0 lead with an impressive average of over 120. Wade appeared visibly distressed in the ninth leg, accidentally stabbing himself in the hand with a dart as he left the oche. Ultimately, Littler won overwhelmingly, with Wade offering little resistance.

"He absolutely mullered me, but what can you do in that situation?" Wade said. "He was the better player, and although it hurts me to admit it, it's the truth. For me, this is a big step in the right direction. Fair play to Luke – at the minute, he's probably the best or second-best darts player in the world." He acknowledged Littler's dominance and his own need to improve.