Luke Littler: World No 1 presented with MBE by Prince William at Windsor Castle for his contribution to the game of darts | Darts News


World No. 1 Luke Littler has been presented with an MBE by Prince William at Windsor Castle.

Littler was recognized for his contribution to the game of darts in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honors list last summer – alongside Luke Humphries – and was presented with a commendation at an institute ceremony at Windsor Castle on Tuesday.

The 19-year-old has enjoyed a stunning rise to prominence in recent years, winning back-to-back World Championship titles and breaking many records in the process.

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Highlights of the World Championship Final between Luke Littler and Gian van Veen

Littler made history when he claimed the world championship at the age of just 17 years and 347 days, becoming the youngest player ever to lift the title.

His MBE, awarded in the King’s Birthday Honors for services to sport, drew an emotional response when it was announced last June.

“This is a surprising and unexpected honor but one for which I am very grateful,” Littler said.

“Receiving such recognition is something I never thought would be possible and it’s a proud moment.

“It’s unbelievable what I’ve done for my sport. I’m happy, my family is happy and I can’t wait to get it.”

Littler made his debut at Alexandra Palace as a 16-year-old in 2023/24, enjoying a fairytale run to the final before losing to his great rival Humphries.

However, the Warrington sensation has since lifted back-to-back titles at the sport’s flagship event, joining Phil Taylor, Adrian Lewis and Gary Anderson as only the fourth player in PDC history to achieve the feat.

Littler won the Premier League, the World Series of Darts Final and the Grand Slam of Darts in 2024, before enjoying further dominance last season, claiming a staggering six TV Rankings titles.

The journey included success at the UK Open, World Matchplay, World Grand Prix, Grand Slam of Darts and The Players Championship Final before he successfully retained the Sid Waddell Trophy in January.

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Watch the moment Littler checked out 170s to win Premier League week eight

Littler also scooped both televised ranking titles on offer in 2026, following his maiden Winmow World Masters win in March with his second consecutive UK Open crown at Minehead.

‘The Nuke’ returns to competitive action on Thursday night 16 of the BetMGM Premier League, as he chases a record-breaking seventh night win of the season in Sheffield.

The ceremony also recognized comedian Matt Lucas, who received an OBE, along with England footballer Ella Toon and rugby union star Sadia Kabeya, who were each awarded an MBE.

What’s happening on Premier League Night 16 in Sheffield?

Premier League Darts 2026

The 2026 BetMGM Premier League season concludes at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield, with table positions still at stake to determine the play-off semi-final matchups.

With the top four confirmed for finals night, group-stage winners Littler, Jonny Clayton, Gerwyn Price and Luke Humphries are set to compete for the title at the O2 Arena on May 28.

Whether Price or Humphries will finish third and potentially avoid a semifinal showdown with Littler in the playoffs remains to be decided.

16pm – Utilita Arena, Sheffield Thursday 21st May

Quarter-final
Johnny Clayton vs Stephen Bunting
Gerwyn Price vs Jean van Veen
Luke Littler vs Josh Rock
Luke Humphries vs Michael van Gerwen

Price faces Gian van Veen, while Humphries faces Michael van Gerwen. Littler meets Josh Rock and Clayton goes up against Stephen Bunting.

Who will win this Premier League Darts? Luke Humphries will defend his title and you can catch the action every Thursday until May on Sky Sports. Stream darts and more great games now.



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