“That kid’s special, he’s completely different”: Josh Rock says Luke Littler’s ‘celebrity status’ won’t distract him

As the darts year approaches its denouement, fans and analysts are watching with excitement as young talents enter the world's top ranks. One name that has received a lot of attention in recent months is Josh Rock. The Northern Irish sensation recently reflected on the challenges ahead of him, especially in relation to superstar Luke Littler.

"Littler's status as a superstar might get in his way," Rock was asked on Talksport, referring to the pressures that fame and celebrity bring. "But whether that also opens doors for me? No not one bit, that kid’s special. He’s completely different.”

With these words, Rock shows his respect for his competitor. Littler has been praised for his unique approach to the sport and mental resilience, something many believe sets him apart from the rest of the players on the Tour. Whereas some young players are weighed down by the expectations of fans and media, Littler seems to thrive under the spotlight.

“That will not phase him one bit being a World Champion or not. He might get beat a lot more often than he did in the last year and a bit but that’s not gonna faze him at all.”

Josh Rock himself has made an impressive rise in the darts world in recent years. With his consistent performances, he has shown that he is a serious candidate for major titles. Yet he acknowledges that it is not just about technique and scores, but also about reading the competition and understanding the dynamics of the Tour. In his comments about Littler, it is clear that Rock has a down-to-earth outlook: he sees the talents around him, but is not intimidated by them.

What this means for the new season is exciting for fans. The rivalry between young stars such as Rock and Littler, as well as Gian van Veen who recently won the European Darts Championship, could take the PDC Tour to new heights.

The next few months will show whether Rock can live up to his predictions about Littler's mental resilience and his own development. Starting at the Grand Slam of Darts, which kicks off next Saturday in Wolverhampton. Rock is assigned to a pool there with Gian van Veen, Wessel Nijman and Lisa Ashton. Littler will take on Daryl Gurney, Connor Scutt and Karel Sedlacek in his pool.