Footage emerges of Luke Littler's parents after he beat Michael van Gerwen to win World Darts Championship

Littler was beaten by Luke Humphries in the final of the same competition 12 months ago after bursting onto the scene.

With a year's experience in him, however, the talented prodigy was too strong for Van Gerwen - who was forced to settle for runner-up.

Littler's parents, Anthony Buckley and Lisa Littler, were in attendance to watch their son make history just days into the New Year.

And footage shared by PDC Darts shows the duo wildly celebrating as Littler secured glory.

Lisa screamed in delight, while Anthony immediately stood up and started applauding the new world champion.

Just over 12 months ago, few had heard of Littler.

What a moment for the Littler family! 🙌#WCDarts | @LukeTheNuke180 pic.twitter.com/Er816PnEyE

— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) January 3, 2025

But his exploits at the oche have propelled him to superstardom, with the darts star now very much the man to beat.

Speaking after his win, Littler expressed his delight and revealed that he's now fulfilled a childhood dream.

"I can't believe it. We both played so well," he said.

"I've said in interviews that I needed to get off to a quick start tonight and that's what I did. But he was behind me the whole game, those cover shots - he'd hit two trebles and I'd have to come back with two or three.

"Everyone dreams of lifting this trophy. You've got to get through a tough field. I can't believe it.

"I keep saying it but that first game against Ryan Meikle [in round two] was the one that really mattered, and throughout I've just settled.

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"At 2-0 up [in the final set] I started getting nervous but I said to myself to just relax. I was throwing for the match and to get it over and done with then was special."

And Sir Keir Starmer congratulated Littler, describing his performance as 'mesmerising'.

The Prime Minister stated: "Mesmerising performance from Luke Littler to win the World Darts Championship.

"Congratulations Luke on being the youngest ever PDC World Darts Champion.

"An inspirational performance under such pressure to lift the trophy.

"You should be really proud of what you've achieved tonight, not just for yourself but for the sport of darts as a whole."