By Basant El-Faramawy
Fallon Sherrock defeated Luke Littler in a one-off leg of 501 on Friday night to win the Netflix “Beat Luke Littler” competition and claim a £501,000 prize, the second-largest single payout in darts history.
Sherrock overcomes criticism
The 32-year-old said she was delighted to “overcome the hate” after her inclusion in the show attracted backlash. Sherrock, who does not hold a PDC Tour Card, told the Press Association she fit the entry criteria and plays darts for enjoyment. She noted that when she first won at the World Championship seven years ago, she was still competing in the World Darts Federation.
Hearn defends selection
PDC chief Barry Hearn defended the line-up, stating Sherrock was entitled to enter and her presence added excellence to the competition. The event also featured WDF number one Mitchell Lawrie, former professional Mark Pooke, teenager Jayden Walker, and everyday players such as a bin man, an Australian jockey, and a Nando’s manager.
The show was streamed globally on Netflix, further boosting darts’ mainstream appeal. Hearn credited Littler with bringing a young audience to the sport, which attracted Netflix’s investment and innovative ideas.
