Michael van Gerwen has failed in his attempt to win a fourth world darts championship after losing the final to 17-year-old English teenager Luke Littler at Alexandra Palace in London.

Littler beat Van Gerwen, who last won the title in 2019, 7-3. Van Gerwen’s loss seemed inevitable after he was left 4-0 down in the first sets, but began moving back into the game in the fifth.

Littler broke down in tears after his win, which made him the youngest title holder ever. That record had previously belonged to Van Gerwen who first won when he was 24.

According to British media, Van Gerwen spoke glowingly of his opponent, saying “I’m 35, he’s 17. Every 17 years, a star gets born. He deserves it, he played well.

“It hurts, but that’s how it should be. If it doesn’t hurt, you’re not going to be a sportsman. I have to move on and make sure I keep playing better.”