Darts star Luke Littler receives MBE from Prince William at Windsor Castle
World number one darts player Luke Littler has received his MBE from Prince William at Windsor Castle for his outstanding contributions to the sport.
The 19-year-old was recognised in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours List following a remarkable period of dominance on the oche.
He attended an official investiture ceremony in Berkshire on Tuesday to formally accept the prestigious accolade.
A stunning rise to darts dominance
The Warrington sensation has enjoyed an unprecedented trajectory since bursting onto the professional scene as a teenager.
He made history by claiming his first world championship at just 17 years and 347 days old, making him the youngest player ever to lift the title.
The back-to-back world champion reacted with humility when his royal recognition was initially announced last summer.
This is an amazing and unexpected honour but one which I am very grateful for.
To receive a recognition like this is something I had never thought would be possible and it is a proud moment.
It’s unbelievable what I’ve done for my sport. I’m happy, my family is happy and I can’t wait to receive it.
Record-breaking success continues
After losing his debut Alexandra Palace final to great rival Luke Humphries in 2024, the English prodigy has proved completely unstoppable.
He joined legends Phil Taylor, Adrian Lewis and Gary Anderson as only the fourth player in Professional Darts Corporation history to successfully defend the flagship crown.
The reigning Premier League champion amassed a staggering six televised ranking titles last season before retaining the Sid Waddell Trophy in January.
His momentum has not slowed in 2026, already securing the Winmau World Masters and a second consecutive UK Open title.
‘The Nuke’ returns to competitive action on Thursday evening as he targets a seventh nightly victory in the Premier League at Sheffield.
Other notable honourees
The Windsor Castle ceremony also saw several other prominent figures from sports and entertainment recognised by the Prince of Wales.
Comedian Matt Lucas received an OBE, while England footballer Ella Toone and rugby union star Sadia Kabeya were both awarded MBEs.