The darts world witnessed an unexpected shake-up when Beau Greaves, a decorated female darts star, managed to topple rising star Luke Littler in the World Youth Championship.
Littler, who had just claimed £120,000 at the World Grand Prix the night before, seemed unstoppable—but the tournament had other plans.
Despite being the reigning world champion, Littler made the unusual choice to drop down into the youth championship, sparking curiosity and controversy among fans and pundits alike.
Littler’s Journey Through the Tournament
Entering the competition, Littler faced rising talents like Gian van Veen, Charlie Manby, and Beau Greaves, each hungry to make their mark.
The 18-year-old world champion navigated the group stages with relative ease, edging past Charlie Manby 6-5 and then delivering a convincing 6-1 win over Jamai van den Herik.
These victories set up a high-stakes semi-final clash against Greaves, a three-time WDF women’s world champion who has recently qualified for this year’s winter World Championship.
Greaves Pulls Off the Upset
The semi-final was a nail-biter.
Littler, nicknamed “The Nuke,” averaged an impressive 107.4 against 21-year-old Greaves, but the win ultimately slipped from his grasp.
In the deciding leg, Greaves held her nerve to secure the victory, leaving Littler stunned after his recent triumph over World No. 1 Luke Humphries in the Grand Prix final.
Cheered on by his parents and girlfriend Faith Millar, Littler still couldn’t convert his momentum into a win against Greaves, highlighting the unpredictable nature of darts and the growing strength of female competitors on the big stage.
The Road to the Final
With Littler out, Beau Greaves will now face defending champion and world No. 15 Gian van Veen in the final at Minehead Butlins on November 23.
The winner will take home the £12,000 prize, and Greaves has her sights firmly set on adding another major title to her impressive résumé.
Van Veen, meanwhile, has the opportunity to become the most successful player ever in the World Youth Championship if he triumphs, adding extra drama to the November showdown.
Fan Reactions and Littler’s Response
Littler’s decision to compete drew mixed reactions.
Some fans accused him of arrogance for entering a youth tournament despite being world No. 2.
One Facebook user wrote, “Luke Littler is a fantastic darts player. However, the arrogance is clearly showing.
He’s entering just to prove a point. Really hope he gets eliminated first round.”
Littler responded lightheartedly, posting, “Reeled u in big time there,” alongside a gif of his signature ‘big fish’ celebration.
Another fan on X questioned whether top-ranked players should even be eligible for youth tournaments.
Under PDC rules, though, any player who meets the age requirement can participate—meaning Littler’s entry was entirely legal.
Littler Reflects on the Defeat
After his semi-final loss, Littler praised Greaves on social media: “I had two 10-dart legs, missed double 12 for a nine and still couldn’t win. Fair play to Beau. Some talent.”
Littler, who previously won the competition in 2023 by beating van Veen 6-4, emphasized that players aged 16 to 23 are eligible to compete, making him still very much a contender.
Speaking to Sky Sports, he explained his mindset: “I’ll head to the World Youths, see everyone and have a bit of fun.
I could have had the day off, but why not? Play the World Youth, then two ProTours in Wigan, and have the weekend off.”
What’s Next for Littler?
Despite the setback, Littler’s season is far from over.
With ProTour events on the horizon and opportunities to continue refining his game, fans can expect plenty more action from the young star in the months ahead.
Meanwhile, all eyes will be on Greaves and van Veen as they battle for glory at Minehead later this year.