Luke Littler has finally ended his World Grand Prix drought in stunning fashion — defeating his “bogeyman” Gian van Veen despite the Dutchman posting the highest average in the tournament’s history.
The reigning world champion produced a thrilling 2-0 victory in a first-round classic in Leicester, lighting up the stage in this unique double-start format.
Van Veen’s record-breaking average of 106.47 would have been enough to win almost any other match in the event’s history — but it wasn’t enough to stop the teenage sensation.
It marked Littler’s first-ever win at the Grand Prix, having fallen at the first hurdle 12 months ago in the East Midlands when he was beaten by Rob Cross.
Luke Littler claimed a victory at the World Grand Prix
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The triumph came just 24 hours after Littler announced he had split from his long-term manager Martin Foulds, ending a five-year partnership.
If there were any questions about his focus, the 18-year-old answered them emphatically.
Littler opened with confidence, checking out a brilliant 151 in the fourth leg before sealing the first set in just six minutes with an 86 finish — celebrating with a trademark fist pump as the crowd roared.
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Sky Sports commentators hailed the match as “one of the best sets of darts you’ll ever see,” as both players pushed each other to incredible levels.
Littler, who averaged 105.58 across eight legs, stuck to his favoured double-top and double-10 combination to open legs, finding his rhythm early and never looking back.
He then produced another moment of magic to secure the win — a sensational 144 checkout that left Van Veen simply raising his hands and shrugging in disbelief.
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Luke Littler finally beat Gian van Veen
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The Dutchman could only smile and shake his head, knowing he had been outclassed in a match where he did little wrong.
For Littler, it was a statement victory — proof that his game continues to mature as fast as his reputation grows.
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“I’m very happy,” he said afterwards. “I don’t think I could have done a lot better. It felt all good — I missed a few doubles but overall it was a good performance. Gian played his part in a brilliant game.
“We pushed each other every time and played our best darts. To win my first game here feels amazing. I said before the match that I’d be a lot more fiery this time — and I showed that.”
Gian van Veen had a three-match winning streak against Luke Littler
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Littler now moves into the second round brimming with confidence and chasing another major title in what has already been a remarkable debut year on the professional circuit.
At just 18, “The Nuke” continues to rewrite history — and this time, he’s finally conquered his Grand Prix demons.