13-Year-Old Jack Johnson wins second JDC Title of 2025 in Leicester thriller

The future of darts was on full display Sunday afternoon as 13-year-old Jack Johnson captured his second JDC title of the year, edging Alfie Hutton 5-4 in a gripping final at the Mattioli Arena in Leicester.

The JDC National Volts final, staged ahead of the World Grand Prix showdown between Luke Littler and Luke Humphries, gave both youngsters a rare chance to shine on the big stage — and they delivered.

Hutton struck first with a composed 94 finish, showing early nerves of steel. Johnson, winner of the JDC Super 16 earlier this year, responded immediately with a superb 126 checkout in 12 darts, drawing applause from the Leicester crowd. He followed with a tidy 65 finish to go 2-1 up.

Momentum swung throughout, with Hutton battling back through finishes of 62 and another 94 to take two of the next three legs. He then edged ahead 4-3 and came within one leg of victory.

But Johnson remained unfazed. Under pressure, he forced a decider with a clinical leg, then held his nerve in the ninth to seal the title — showing maturity well beyond his years.

The win marks Johnson’s second JDC big stage title of 2025 — an impressive feat for a player still only 13. His technical precision and mental resilience continue to set him apart from his peers.

The JDC National Volts is part of the Junior Darts Corporation circuit, offering young players across the UK and beyond a platform to compete and progress.

Staging the final at the Mattioli Arena provided Johnson and Hutton invaluable experience in a professional setting — and both rose to the occasion. Later that evening, they watched as Luke Littler went on to win the World Grand Prix.

Next up for the JDC is the Super 16 final in November during the Grand Slam of Darts, followed by the JDC World Junior Championship final at Alexandra Palace in December — a dream stage for any young talent. The season wraps up in early 2026 with the launch of the Winmau Junior World Masters in Milton Keynes.

With players like Johnson and Hutton emerging, the next generation is showing it’s ready to take centre stage. Both have already demonstrated composure, consistency, and competitive edge — qualities that suggest their rise is only just beginning.