Luke Littler clinched the first-ever Saudi Arabia Darts Masters, defeating Michael van Gerwen 8-5 in the final. The 19-year-old world number one raced to a 4-0 lead, averaging 104.84 and boasting a 61.5% checkout rate to secure the title.

This victory marks a significant start for the World Series of Darts event in Riyadh. Littler, who signed a reported £20m sponsorship deal, called the tournament a brilliant experience. Van Gerwen, despite averaging 101.79, couldn't overcome the early deficit.

The event, held at the Global Theater, offered a $200,000 bonus for a nine-darter, which no player achieved. It represents Saudi Arabia's continued push into major sports, following Formula 1 and golf, and ahead of the 2034 World Cup.