Luke Littler is gearing up for a frosty reception when Premier League Darts heads to Liverpool this Thursday. The 17-year-old sensation, known for his confident swagger and love for Manchester United, is no stranger to winding up rival fans—especially those from Merseyside.
But this week, he’s not just facing a tough crowd.
Fellow darts star Stephen Bunting, a proud Liverpool FC supporter and close friend of Littler off the oche, threw a verbal dart of his own by calling Littler “fragile.” The comment came after Littler announced he’d skip several German tournaments following a rocky experience on the European Tour.
“Football rivalries will always be part of sport, but it’s a dangerous path,” said Bunting. “Last year he was mocking us after Everton beat us 2-0—I don’t think Liverpool fans forget that. And with how fragile he’s been lately, I don’t think he likes the boos.”
Littler, however, isn’t backing down. Responding on social media platform X, he fired back confidently:
“One of the best nights on the Premier League calendar coming up tomorrow—bring on the boos, Liverpool.”
Earlier this week, Littler exited the German Darts Grand Prix after a semi-final loss to Gian van Veen. His quarter-final opponent, Peter Wright, received cheers from the German crowd, while Littler faced a colder reception.
“I just don’t get it. I can’t explain it,” Littler said about the booing. “I got booed last year in Hildesheim too, and I ended up losing. It’s something we’ve all got to deal with.”
This Thursday in Liverpool, Littler is set to face Michael van Gerwen in the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, Stephen Bunting will take on Rob Cross as he battles to climb from the bottom of the Premier League table.
