Just days after lifting his first Premier League Darts title, teenage sensation Luke Littler has been hit by devastating personal news: his mother, Lisa, has been diagnosed with cancer.
The 18-year-old world champion learned of the diagnosis shortly after his 11-7 victory over Michael van Gerwen in Thursday night’s final at The O2 Arena. Sources close to the family confirm the news came as a “complete shock” to the rising star and his relatives.
In a brief statement released through the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC), Littler asked for privacy but confirmed he will not withdraw from any upcoming tournaments. “Darts is my profession, but family is everything,” the statement read. “I’ll be playing for her.”
According to family friends, the diagnosis was made following routine tests last week. The specific form of cancer has not been disclosed. Lisa Littler, a former hairdresser, has been a constant presence at her son’s matches throughout his meteoric rise, famously celebrating his run to the 2024 World Championship final.
Fans and fellow players have flooded social media with messages of support. World number one Luke Humphries wrote: “Absolutely gutted for Luke and his family. Stay strong, champ. We’re all behind you.”
A PDC spokesperson said the organization would offer Littler “full support and any flexibility needed” regarding his schedule. The teenager is next due to compete in the Premier League’s Night 13 in Birmingham next Thursday.
Despite the heartbreak, Littler is said to be determined to continue playing. “He knows his mum would want him to keep going,” a family source added. “But right now, he’s just focusing on being with her.”
