Luke Littler and his fellow competitors are gearing up for a lucrative opportunity in Riyadh next week. The World Series of Darts is making its debut in Saudi Arabia, featuring a showdown between eight PDC Tour players and eight Asian Tour representatives. The highlight of the tournament is the chance to win $200,000 (£149,000) by achieving a nine-dart finish followed by a ‘golden bull.’
A player who hits a nine-darter will secure a $100,000 (£74,700) prize and then have the unique opportunity to double it by aiming for the bullseye with one ‘golden’ dart. This incentive marks the largest reward in darting history for a nine-dart finish, creating high anticipation, especially for Littler, given his recent successes.
Littler, who recently clinched a record £1 million prize for winning the World Championship, has been on a winning streak, securing a lucrative long-term contract worth £20 million with his darts supplier. His skill was evident when he threw nine perfect darts in a previous World Series event in Bahrain, showcasing his talent and determination.
This new incentive in darts bears resemblance to the Riyadh Season Snooker Championship, which features the “Riyadh Season golden ball” offering a $1 million (£760,000) bonus for achieving a unique 167 break. The golden ball is strategically placed at the start of each frame, adding an exciting element to the competition.
Former World Championship semi-finalist Mark Webster highlighted the potential rewards for players in the tournament, emphasizing the substantial prize money awaiting those who achieve a perfect 10-dart finish. Littler will be accompanied by a lineup of talented players in Riyadh, including Luke Humphries, Michael van Gerwen, and others.
As the darts action unfolds in the Bahrain Masters, where Littler and his competitors are currently engaged, the anticipation for the upcoming Riyadh tournament continues to build. With impressive performances and thrilling challenges ahead, the darts world is abuzz with excitement for what promises to be a thrilling competition.