David Beckham fires Luke Littler three-word text after Ally Pally win vs Michael van Gerwen

Luke Littler has revealed that he received a congratulatory message from Manchester United and England legend David Beckham after winning the PDC World Darts Championship.

Littler, 17, defeated three-time winner Michael van Gerwen, 35, at Alexandra Palace on Friday night to become the youngest-ever winner of the world title.

Littler raced into a 4-0 lead against the classy Dutchman, who had previously held the title as the youngest world champion when he won the first of his three world titles in 2014, aged 24.

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But despite a strong response from Van Gerwen, Littler was able to hold off the Dutchman and secure a first PDC World Darts Championship crown, all while avenging last year's final loss to Luke Humphries.

In the aftermath of his triumph, however, Littler - a boyhood Manchester United fan - revealed that he received a text message from former United, Real Madrid and England midfielder Beckham.

Detailing the exchange to Sky Sports, Littler said: "He said; 'Wow, well done', and I said thank you!"

Littler went on: "It goes to show what I have done for the sport, not only for myself but for the other hundreds of professionals out there. Just to see the likes of David Beckham watching it feels crazy."

After clinching the victory with a double 16 out to win his seventh set, Littler continue: "I can't believe it. We both played so well. I've said in interviews that I needed to get off to a quick start tonight and that's what I did.

"Everyone dreams of lifting this trophy. You've got to get through a tough field. I can't believe it."

Van Gerwen, meanwhile, added: "We all know I've come from a far distance, and I've been battling my own game. I'm 35, he's 17. Every 17 years, a star gets born."