Players Championship: Luke Littler throws nine-darter but winning run comes to end

Luke Littler threw his first nine-darter of the year at Players Championship Five, but the teenage sensation's 19-match winning streak came to an end with a painful defeat in the semi-finals. This achievement marks a significant milestone in Littler's burgeoning career, although he would have preferred it to be coupled with a tournament victory.

The 18-year-old world champion completed the feat in the sixth leg of his 6-5 second-round victory over Adam Hunt at the event held in Leicester. Littler then came from 0-4 down to beat Dirk van Duijvenbode by the same 6-5 scoreline, before cruising into the semi-finals with a dominant 6-1 quarter-final win over Damon Heta, averaging an impressive 122.96. His performance demonstrated his resilience and ability to perform under pressure.

However, Littler's winning run was halted in the semi-finals as he narrowly lost 6-7 to Gian van Veen. This was Littler's first defeat since losing 4-6 to Luke Humphries in the Premier League Night Four final last month, highlighting the consistency he has shown recently. The loss served as a reminder that even the most talented players can face setbacks.

Dutchman Van Veen went on to face Joe Cullen in the final, which also went to a deciding leg, with the Englishman Cullen eventually prevailing 8-7. "I think that's the best win of my career, because I've had a really bad year," said the 35-year-old Cullen. Cullen's victory was a testament to his perseverance and determination.

"It's the worst thing as a darts player when your ranking is slipping and you start doubting yourself. There's a reason I'm still here, but I'm doing everything I can to get back to the top." In addition, Gary Anderson also hit a nine-darter in his 6-5 first-round win over Ryan Joyce, but then lost to Rob Owen by the same scoreline in the last 16, missing out on further progress. Anderson's early exit underscored the unpredictable nature of the tournament.