"Like Michael van Gerwen says, when the fire goes, that’s when you stop": Luke Littler sets retirement plan amid darting dominance

In the build-up to Night Nine of the Premier League Darts in Manchester, Luke Littler exudes calm, confidence, and hunger. The young sensation, who has rapidly grown into a mainstay at the top of the darts world, knows exactly where he stands – and where he wants to go.

With the play-offs at the iconic O2 Arena on the horizon, it is now about fine-tuning, sharpness, and maintaining his level. “Yeah, I’m always excited to come to Manchester and play my darts. Hopefully I can get another win here.”

The Premier League Darts has a clear benchmark: qualifying for Finals Night in London. In recent years, around 25 to 26 points has been enough, but Littler is setting his sights higher. “Over the last few years, around 25 or 26 points gets you in. I’ve said myself, call it 30 points and then I’ll say I’m in.”

It reflects his mindset—never settling. Still, topping the table remains a target in itself. “The main aim is to get to the O2, but finishing top would be nice again. Maybe they should bring that bonus back.”

One of the talking points this season was Littler’s slow start. But there was no panic from the teenager. “That’s darts, it’s a crazy sport. You win some, you lose some. You have bad moments and better ones. A few weeks didn’t go to plan, but just look where I am now.”

Rather than over-analysing, Littler trusts his natural game. “I don’t think there’s any need to worry once you’re on stage. I just enjoy it, thrive off the fans and the atmosphere. As long as I’m playing my best, there’s nothing to worry about.”

Much has been made of Littler’s growing aura in the sport, but he keeps his focus simple. “I think it comes from what I’ve done – bouncing back from a bad start to where I belong, at the top. But everyone is chasing that top spot.”

That belief is never clearer than when he’s behind in matches. “I don’t think I’m ever out of a game. Against Gezzy, going 5–0 down and winning showed that. At 5–3 I said to myself, ‘I’ve got him.’ You could see him starting to miss.”

He also acknowledges the psychological edge he can carry onto the stage. “Sometimes it feels like I’m 1–0 or 2–0 up before I even get on stage. Some players treat it like their final when they play me.”

Littler’s resilience has become a defining trait. “It’s belief in yourself and your ability. I don’t think I’m ever beaten in a game.”

And crucially, he wants the very best from his rivals. “Definitely. We need that week in, week out. If everyone’s on their A-game, you get the best matches.”

Despite dominating alongside Luke Humphries in recent seasons, Littler is surprised to see his rival outside the top four.

“Yes, it does surprise me. But there’s still a long way to go. It wouldn’t surprise me if he makes the top four and gets to the O2.”

Still, he remains grounded about the competition as a whole.

“Anyone can win a night. I was seventh after a few weeks and still ended up top. You’re looking at the top four, maybe top five – but anything can happen.”

Littler continues to thrill fans with big finishes, including his recent run of 170 checkouts.

“I love setting them up. Even on 221, I’ll go for it. You’ve got to back yourself and give the fans what they want.”

Despite his early success, Littler’s long-term outlook remains focused on motivation rather than money.

“That’s down to me. Whether I still want it in 10 or 15 years, whether I’ve achieved everything I want. The goal is to win every major, multiple times.”

And ultimately, like all greats, he knows what will decide it. “Like Michael says, when the fire goes, that’s when you stop.”