Luke Littler teases using new darts for Premier League finals: “I like having a little swap and change”
Luke Littler Hints at New Darts for 2025 Premier League Finals
Luke Littler has teased the possibility of using a new set of darts for the 2025 Premier League Darts Play-Offs on May 29, 2025, at the O2 Arena, where he faces Gerwyn Price in the semi-final. The 18-year-old world champion, known for his adaptability, revealed his penchant for switching equipment, saying, “I like having a little swap and change,” ahead of the high-stakes event.
Littler’s Darts Tease
In an interview before the Play-Offs, Littler hinted at debuting a fresh set of darts, stating, “I’ve got a new set ready. I like having a little swap and change, keeps things fresh.” He explained that Target Darts, his sponsor, provides various prototypes, allowing him to experiment: “I’ve been throwing a few different ones in practice. Might bring them out for the O2, we’ll see how I feel.” This flexibility has been a hallmark of his game, with Littler previously switching darts mid-season in 2024, contributing to his Grand Slam of Darts win. His current 23-gram Target G1 darts, used during his 2025 World Championship triumph, could be swapped for a lighter or differently weighted set, a tactic he’s employed to adjust to venues or opponents
Context of the Premier League Finals
Littler enters the Play-Offs as the top seed, having amassed a record 45 points with six nightly wins, including a 6-3 victory over Price in Sheffield on May 22, 2025. His season highlights include a nine-darter against Michael van Gerwen in Cardiff and checkouts like 155 and 170. Facing Price, who holds a 7-6 head-to-head edge, Littler’s potential switch could be a psychological ploy, especially after taunting Price’s “mistake” in Sheffield that dropped him to fourth. Price, unfazed, praised Littler’s impact, saying, “He’s phenomenal for darts,” but vowed to exploit any errors.
Impact of Changing Darts
Littler’s willingness to switch darts mid-tournament is bold, given the precision required at the O2. He noted, “It’s about feel. If I’m not hitting my trebles, a new set can just click.” In 2024, he used a lighter 22-gram set for the Premier League final, aiding his 11-7 win over Luke Humphries with a nine-darter. However, the risk is evident—his 2024 World Matchplay loss to van Gerwen followed a darts change that disrupted his rhythm. Against Price’s clinical doubles (6/11 in their Nottingham clash), Littler’s gamble could either unsettle his rival or backfire.
Rivalry and Mind Games
The semi-final is steeped in mind games. Littler’s “swap and change” comment follows his jab at Price’s Sheffield collapse, while Price countered, “I’ve got a good record over young Luke, he’ll be thinking about it.” Littler’s confidence, backed by his 103.39 average in Nottingham despite a loss, contrasts with Price’s experience, highlighted by a 104.43 average in Liverpool. The winner faces Humphries or Nathan Aspinall for the £275,000 prize.
Connection to Other Sports Stories
Littler’s adaptability mirrors Alex de Minaur’s push for ATP reform, both tweaking their approach to stay competitive. Like Gerwyn Price’s mental shift, Alexander Zverev’s need for risk-taking, Jack Grealish’s career pivot, and Emma Raducanu’s evolution, Littler’s darts switch reflects a willingness to innovate under pressure.
Conclusion
Luke Littler teased using new darts for the 2025 Premier League Play-Offs, saying, “I like having a little swap and change,” as he prepares to face Gerwyn Price on May 29, 2025. The top seed’s potential switch, backed by his six nightly wins and 45-point season, adds intrigue to his 7-6 rivalry with Price. Whether a masterstroke or a risk, Littler’s move could shape his bid for a £275,000 repeat title. Like de Minaur, Price, Zverev, Grealish, and Raducanu, Littler’s bold choice underscores his fearless approach. Watch live on Sky Sports at 7:00 PM BST.
