Luke Littler bemoans ‘not the best’ darts as he joins exclusive four-man club

Luke Littler has become just the fourth player to win back-to-back UK Open titles as he emerged victorious once again on Sunday.

The 19-year-old retained his crown at Butlin’s Minehead as he beat James Wade in what was a repeat of last year’s final.

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Earlier in the tournament, Littler battled past Josh Rock and Danny Noppert with Littler admitting himself that he feels he can play much better.

“It feels amazing,” said Littler, who claims prize money of £120,000 as a result of his triumph.

“I don’t think it’s been the best of tournaments for me average-wise but I’ve dug deep throughout the tournament and I’ve come out with the win.

“That’s what James does, he’s always behind you. After the game I told him if he hit those double tops then completely different game.

“I wasn’t happy with myself through the early rounds. But we’ve come out as champ.”

Still on top

Littler’s had an inconsistent start to 2026 having failed to win in the Premier League until Night Five in Cardiff earlier this week, while also losing in the quarter-finals of the Bahrain Darts Masters.

However, his win over Wade means he’s not been beaten in a major TV event since October 25 last year, when Wade knocked him out of the Euro Championship.

The win also sees Littler join Michael van Gerwen, Phil Taylor and Raymond van Barneveld as the only players to have won back-to-back UK Opens.

Wade gracious in defeat

Littler got the better of a player in Wade who has won the UK Open on three previous occasions.

The 42-year-old, who scooped £60,000 for finishing as runner-up, said post-match: “He [Littler] was just too good for me there in the end.

“Little bit gassed out, little bit older than he is. Just couldn’t quite find it. Hats off to him.

“He’s doing what he does and he does it quite easily. Missed a couple of shots and a couple of doubles. No one likes losing.

“Perhaps it doesn’t always get reflected how I’m doing and what I’m doing. But for the last 18 months I’ve done alright.

“Luke’s flying the flag for the PDC, he’s the best player in the world at the moment.

“Unfortunately I’ve lost to him in three finals. I hate losing more than anyone.”

Littler’s attention will turn to Nottingham for Night Six of the Premier League on Thursday.