Luke Littler and his fellow competitors are set to have a shot at winning a significant prize of $200,000 (£149,000) by achieving a nine-dart finish followed by hitting a ‘golden bull’ in Riyadh next week. The World Series of Darts is making its debut in Saudi Arabia, bringing together eight PDC Tour representatives and eight Asian Tour representatives for a lucrative two-day tournament starting on Monday.
In this unique setup, a player who completes a nine-dart finish will secure a $100,000 (£74,700) prize and then have the opportunity to double it by aiming for the bullseye with a ‘golden’ dart. This prize package for a nine-dart finish represents the largest in the sport’s history, with Littler eagerly anticipating the challenge.
Luke Littler, an 18-year-old who recently made headlines by winning the £1 million World Championship prize and signing a lucrative £20 million contract with his darts supplier, is no stranger to high-stakes competitions. Having showcased his skill with nine perfect darts in the World Series event in Bahrain in 2024, Littler is gearing up for another impressive performance.
The darts scene in Riyadh is drawing parallels to the Riyadh Season Snooker Championship, which features a similar high-stakes element called the “Riyadh Season golden ball.” Placed at the center of the baulk cushion at the beginning of each frame, this golden cue ball offers a $1 million (£760,000) bonus for achieving a sport-defining 167 break.
Former World Championship semi-finalist Mark Webster highlighted the exciting new incentive in darts, emphasizing the potential for players to earn $200,000 by hitting a perfect ten-dart leg. The anticipation is building as Littler, alongside noted players like Luke Humphries, Michael van Gerwen, and others, prepares to compete in Riyadh.
As the competitors, including Littler, participate in the ongoing Bahrain Masters event, the excitement is palpable following Littler’s recent World Championship victory. With impressive performances already underway, the stage is set for an enthralling showdown in Riyadh, showcasing the skill and precision of these top darts professionals.