Dan Stapleton, an amateur darts player from North Wales, experienced an unexpected turn of events during a local tournament in Chester in 2023. After advancing through the initial round, he found himself pitted against the rising star Luke Littler, who was on the brink of making his mark in the darts world.
Despite being just 16 at the time, Littler was already gaining attention for his exceptional skills, months before his debut at the prestigious PDC World Championship. Stapleton recalled their encounter at a Chester venue, where he had also unknowingly crossed paths with Littler a year prior.
The two players eventually faced off in the round of 16, with Littler displaying impressive form and securing a convincing 3-0 victory with an average score of 88.41, the highest in that stage of the tournament. Stapleton acknowledged Littler’s unwavering focus and competitiveness, noting that even in smaller events, Littler was determined to excel.
Reflecting on the match, Stapleton recounted how Littler’s exceptional performance left him in awe, particularly as Littler showcased his talent with an 11-dart finish. Despite the defeat, Stapleton held high expectations for Littler’s future success, comparing his potential to previous world champions in the sport.
Stapleton’s admiration for Littler’s talent and dedication was evident, emphasizing his belief that Littler’s remarkable achievements at a young age were a testament to his exceptional abilities. Looking ahead, Stapleton was confident that Littler’s success would continue to soar, setting a high standard in the world of darts.