"They were all there but I'm the one who gets it in the neck": Luke Littler points to Van Veen and Barry amid World Youth criticism

Luke Littler capped off a relentless run of events by claiming his first Players Championship title of 2025, averaging just shy of 110 and hitting ten 180s to win Players Championship 32. After a busy stretch that included the World Grand Prix and the World Youth Championship, the 17-year-old reflected on a week that showcased both his stamina and his world-class form.

Littler saw off surprise package Dennie Olde Kalter in the final and averaged 110 in seeing off the Dutchman and it was the second day in a row he played after also being involved in the World Youth and he hit back at some of the criticism he got for being involved in the tournament.

Being the World Champion and darts all conquering force, he was criticised for taking his spot in the event, one he can play until 2031 but he lost to Beau Greaves anyway who will now face Gian van Veen in the final.

“Obviously it’s the same venue as where we professionals play,” said Littler when asked about his decision to compete in the World Youth Championship. “The likes of Gian van Veen, tour card holder, Keane Barry, tour card holder. They were all there, but I’m the one who gets it in the neck. I didn’t win, so a lot of people were happy! But I just thought I’d come, get used to playing first to five, first to six, and that’s what I’ve done today and yesterday.”

That decision clearly paid off, as the Nuke looked sharp throughout the event in Wigan. For Littler, the focus wasn’t just on claiming the title, but also securing his spot at the Players Championship Finals in Minehead.

“Yeah, that’s always at the back of my mind,” he admitted. “Obviously I’m on social media, some people say I’m not going to make it and there you go, I’ve won it today.”

The World Grand Prix semi-finalist showed his fighting spirit again across the day, recovering from tough positions against several opponents. “You’ve just got to believe in yourself,” Littler said. “I know I’ve got the capability to come from behind, and that’s what I’ve done again today. I’m learning as the days go on. But today I was in the lead most of the time, and that’s where I want to be — but if I’m not, then I’ll come back and win games.”

Despite the impressive averages and heavy scoring, Littler was typically self-critical even after landing the title. “I’m very exhausted, but I’m happy to come away with a win,” he said. “I’m a bit angered that it was only a 15-darter to finish off, because it felt really good, even with the back-to-back 83 checkouts. But yeah, I’ve done the Grand Prix, the World Youth yesterday and today, and now I can go and have a break.”

When he finds that rhythm, Littler admits there are times he feels almost unbeatable. “Yeah, I definitely do,” he smiled. “At the start of the day it’s never the best anyway, you’ve just got to get past those early stages. When it comes down to the last 16 and the quarters, that’s when it gets nitty-gritty. But I’m very happy with today.”

After back-to-back events and a full schedule over the last fortnight, the 17-year-old confirmed he won’t be playing in Hildesheim this weekend and plans to finally rest before returning for the European Championship. “Yeah, obviously it’s all preparation,” he said. “I’ve been playing darts for nearly 10 or 11 days now, non-stop, so I’m going to have a well-deserved break this weekend and then I’ll be back for the Europeans.”

As for the remaining Pro Tours of the season, Littler hinted he may still make an appearance. “Maybe play the last two — I’ll see how I feel,” he said with a grin. “If I want to come up the road for a few quid, then I’ll have to find out!”