Luke Littler Envisions ‘Golden Nine-Darter‘ as Darts Heads to Saudi Arabia
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Darts superstar Luke Littler is already looking ahead to a potential windfall as the sport prepares for a foray into Saudi Arabia in 2026, fueled by Turki Alalshikh, and envisions a lucrative incentive mirroring a recent snooker prize – a “golden nine-darter” worth a substantial sum. The possibility of a high-stakes event in Saudi Arabia has ignited speculation about potential prize money and unique challenges.
The planned expansion, announced to players via email regarding guest allowances, currently lacks specifics on financial rewards. Though, Littler is confident that Alalshikh, who has substantially invested in boxing, will offer substantial incentives for participation. I’m sure I won’t be going over there for nothing!
Littler stated, anticipating a lucrative opportunity.This move follows Alalshikh’s success in elevating boxing and signals his ambition to replicate that impact within the world of darts.
Saudi Arabia Event Details
The event,slated for January,will feature players from the Premier League alongside eight additional competitors. Littler emphasized his preference for maintaining the World Darts Championship at its conventional venue, Ally Pally, but expressed enthusiasm for the potential of frequent events in Saudi Arabia if the initial venture proves successful. He drew a parallel to a recent snooker event, highlighting a £1 million prize for a 147 break and suggesting a similar incentive for a perfect nine-darter in darts.
Littler proposed innovative ideas for a “golden nine-darter,” suggesting making the double 12, double 15, double 18, or the bullseye golden, or even a golden 170 checkout. I’m sure he’ll come up with something,
he added, expressing confidence in Alalshikh’s creativity.
Did You Know?
Turki Alalshikh has become a prominent figure in sports promotion, notably through his investments in boxing and now extending to darts, aiming to elevate the sport’s profile and prize money.
Littler recently showcased his resilience at the World Grand Prix, overcoming a 2-0 deficit against Gerwyn Price with a breathtaking 152 finish. He attributes this comeback ability to his experience at the Matchplay, where he rallied from similar situations to secure victory.
World Grand Prix Performance
During the match against Price, both players engaged in spirited celebrations after winning legs, with Littler playfully responding to Price’s antics. I just laughed to myself when he hits his double, holds throw and gives it, I’m like: ‘You’ve held your throw Gez, come on’
Littler recounted. He emphasized the importance of maintaining composure and focusing on the game despite the competitive atmosphere.
| Event | Date | Location | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia Darts Event | January 2026 (Projected) | Saudi Arabia | Premier League players + 8 others |
| World Grand Prix Quarter-Final | October 6, 2023 | Belgium | Littler defeated Price with a 152 finish |
| Potential Incentive | 2026 Onward | Saudi Arabia | “Golden Nine-Darter” prize |
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Turki Alalshikh’s announcements for official details regarding the Saudi Arabia darts event, including prize money and event format.
What impact do you think the Saudi Arabian investment will have on the future of professional darts? Do you believe a “golden nine-darter” incentive would elevate the sport’s excitement and attract new fans?
Darts’ Growing Global Appeal
Professional darts has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years,attracting a wider audience through televised events and the rise of charismatic players like Luke Littler. The sport’s accessibility and exciting format contribute to its growing appeal. The move to Saudi Arabia represents a notable step in its global expansion, perhaps opening new revenue streams and attracting investment from diverse sources. This expansion mirrors similar trends in other sports, where strategic partnerships and international events are driving growth and increasing visibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the ’golden nine-darter’ concept? It’s a proposed incentive, inspired by a snooker prize, where a perfect nine-darter checkout would earn a substantial bonus, potentially £1 million, in the Saudi Arabian event.
- When is the darts event in Saudi Arabia scheduled? The event is currently planned for January 2026, even though specific dates are yet to be announced.
- Who is Turki Alalshikh? He is a Saudi Arabian businessman and sports promoter who has invested heavily in boxing and is now expanding his involvement into darts.
- What was Luke Littler’s recent performance at the World Grand Prix? Littler defeated Gerwyn Price in the quarter-finals with a remarkable 152 finish, demonstrating his ability to come back from a deficit.
- Will the World Darts Championship move to Saudi Arabia? Littler has expressed a preference for keeping the World Darts Championship at Ally Pally, but is open to frequent events in Saudi Arabia.
- What is the importance of the 152 finish? The 152 finish showcased Littler’s ability to perform under pressure and his growing confidence in high-stakes matches.
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