Welsh Teen Darts Star Makinley Cooper-Johnson Aims to Beat Luke Littler and Fund Undertaker Career

BBC Sport · 2026-10-29
Welsh Teen Darts Star Makinley Cooper-Johnson Aims to Beat Luke Littler and Fund Undertaker Career

Makinley Cooper-Johnson, a Welsh teenager, is emerging as a bold challenger to darts sensation Luke Littler, with ambitions that extend beyond the oche. The young player has stated a direct goal of defeating Littler on the professional stage, a rivalry that could energize the sport's growing youth movement. Cooper-Johnson’s motivation is uniquely practical: she plans to use tournament prize money to train as an undertaker. This unusual career path sets her apart in a sport where young stars often chase full-time professionalism. By targeting Littler, who has become a household name after his World Championship run, Cooper-Johnson is positioning herself within a new generation of darts talent. The potential matchup matters because it underscores how darts is attracting diverse personalities and life goals, broadening its appeal beyond traditional audiences. As women’s darts gains visibility, Cooper-Johnson’s story could inspire others to pursue the sport without abandoning other dreams. Watch for her next televised opportunity to challenge Littler—and for how her off-stage ambitions shape her on-stage focus.