James Wade Dedicates European Championship Win over Littler to his Son Arthur
James Wade Dedicates European Championship Win over Littler to his Son Arthur
James Wade produced one of the standout performances of the 2025 European Championship in Dortmund, defeating teenage sensation Luke Littler to reach the quarter-finals — before delivering one of the most emotional interviews of his career.
The 40-year-old, affectionately known as The Machine, battled through a tense contest to secure his first televised victory over Littler, later dedicating the win to his seven-year-old son, Arthur.
“We Can Do It” — A Father’s Message
Speaking on stage after the match, Wade admitted the performance wasn’t flawless but said the result meant far more than the scoreline.
“Yeah, it was tricky,” he said. “It probably wasn’t quite what it should have been. I let him back in a few times, but I’m just happy to win. It’s something special for my son — he’s struggling at the moment, and I just want him to know that we can do it. So, Arthur — we can do it.”
The victory carried extra meaning for Wade, who reflected on his near miss against Littler at the World Matchplay earlier in the year.
“I should have beaten him then — it was 14-all and I missed doubles,” he recalled. “But this one’s for my boy. We all have our differences, but we can achieve things if we keep fighting. Me and you, Arthur — we’ll take on everyone.”
Proving the Veterans Still Belong
Wade, who has been part of the professional circuit for over two decades, used the moment to highlight that experience still counts in a sport increasingly dominated by youth.
“I’ve been here 25 years,” he said. “The young lads are doing amazing things, but I just wanted to show that players like me can still compete. More importantly, I wanted to show my son that you can overcome anything. He’ll watch this — and I want him to know that if I can do it, he can too.”
Wade’s comments quickly turned from sport to something far more personal.
“It’s not about money or trophies anymore,” he continued. “I’ve done all that. Now it’s about proving to my son — and to anyone who feels different — that we can succeed. My boy might be struggling right now, but he’s amazing. He’ll do great things one day.”
James Wade Dedicates European Championship Win over Littler to his Son Arthur
In a deeply honest moment, Wade revealed how his son’s recent diagnosis has changed his outlook on life and darts.
“When Arthur was born, I hoped he wouldn’t get some of my traits, but he has,” he said softly. “That’s okay. My biggest goal now is to help people who understand what that means — families like ours. I won’t stop until people talk about it more openly. That’s my new motivation.”
He also thanked the darts community for their support.
“When my boy was diagnosed, I didn’t know who to turn to. But I believe the PDC will help, and MODUS have already offered their support. For the first time in 20 years, I’m driven by something new — something bigger than darts. I want to be an ambassador for people who feel like we do.”
More Than Just a Win
Despite his trademark calm on stage, Wade admitted the emotion of the night caught up with him afterward.
“I probably should’ve finished it quicker,” he said with a smile. “But I’m just happy. I’m from a normal background, like most players, and I’ll never ignore what my son’s going through. He’s my biggest hero.”
After more than two decades at the top of world darts, James Wade continues to find fresh purpose — not in rankings or silverware, but in setting an example for his son.
“I told you, Arthur — we can do it.”
