Tensions are mounting between darts stars Michael van Gerwen and Luke Littler ahead of their Premier League opening-night clash in Belfast tomorrow, with Van Gerwen criticising the world champion for his late arrival at a media event.
The incident has added fresh fuel to their growing rivalry, which has intensified since Littler’s triumph over Van Gerwen at the World Championship.
Players were left waiting outside during the pre-tournament media gathering, sparking frustration among the competitors.
Fellow professional Stephen Bunting, who faced Littler in the World Championship semi-finals last month, expressed his displeasure at the situation.
Luke Littler caused fury among his fellow darts players
PDC
Bunting told media that the players had been left “frozen” as they waited outside in the cold for Littler to arrive.
The criticism from both Van Gerwen and Bunting highlights growing tensions ahead of tomorrow’s highly anticipated match.
Littler has dismissed Van Gerwen’s criticism with characteristic confidence.
“You know what Michael’s like,” the reigning world champion said. “He called me lazy. I was just laughing at him.”
The teenage sensation remained focused on the upcoming clash, adding: “I’ve not watched the whole (Ally Pally) final back – only the winning double.
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“He’s going to be up for it, he’s going to be hungry. But I am up for it as the reigning champion.”
The rivalry between Littler and van Gerwen has intensified in recent months, coming to a dramatic peak at Alexandra Palace during the World Championship final.
In a stunning display, Littler secured a commanding 7-3 victory over Van Gerwen.
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Luke Littler beat Michael van Gerwen to land the World Championship last month
Reuters
The win was particularly significant as it saw Littler break Van Gerwen’s record as the youngest world champion in darts history.
The Premier League Darts action kicks off tomorrow night in Belfast, where Littler and van Gerwen will face each other in a highly anticipated opening clash.
The tournament will continue every Thursday night on Sky Sports until the final in London on May 29.
The match offers both players a chance to make an early statement in this year’s Premier League campaign, with their recent rivalry adding extra significance to the encounter.