Fallon Sherrock defeated reigning world champion Luke Littler in a single leg of darts on Friday to claim a £501,000 prize at the "Beat Luke Littler" event in Manchester, broadcast globally on Netflix.
The 32-year-old, who became the first woman to beat a male opponent at the PDC World Championship in 2019, said she was "happy to overcome all the hate" after facing criticism over her inclusion among the 24 amateur contestants. Sherrock, who does not hold a PDC Tour Card, hit a 180 and finished on double 20 to win in 15 darts.
Littler, 19, had already beaten 14 amateurs before facing Sherrock. He praised her performance, calling it "world class." The event, which attracted 25,000 applicants, featured a qualifying stage and a public vote that saw Sherrock selected over Germany's Jarod Becker with 75% of votes.
PDC president Barry Hearn defended Sherrock's participation, emphasizing the desire for "excellence competing against excellence." Sherrock's victory ended the competition immediately, preventing the remaining five amateurs from challenging Littler for the prize.
The night also included appearances by former England footballer Gary Lineker as host, comedian Lee Mack, and television presenter Richard Osman. Other notable participants included 14-year-old Jayden Walker, who pushed Littler to a 12-dart leg, and Ireland's Pearse Mackle, who narrowly missed a match-winning bullseye.
