‘He lives with his mum’ – Van Gerwen sends brutal warning to Luke Littler that he won’t stay long at the top of darts
Michael van Gerwen has issued one of his bluntest warnings yet to reigning world champion Luke Littler, insisting the teenage superstar will not dominate darts “for long” unless he toughens up and proves he can sustain success beyond his breakthrough year.
Van Gerwen, never one to shy away from verbal sparring, aimed a sharp dig at the 18-year-old prodigy, referencing Littler’s age and living situation while questioning whether he is truly ready for long-term greatness in the sport.
“He’s a fantastic talent, but come on – he still lives with his mum,” Van Gerwen said.
“Darts at the top level isn’t just about talent. It’s about pressure, discipline, mental strength and consistency. Let’s see how long he can keep this up.”
Littler has taken the sport by storm since his rise from teenage sensation to world champion, becoming the youngest player ever to win the PDC World Championship and later climbing to world number one in record time. His fearless scoring power, calm attitude and rapid rise have made him the new face of darts, but Van Gerwen believes the hype may be premature.
The three-time world champion insisted that staying at the top is far harder than getting there — something he says Littler has yet to experience.
“Everyone can have a good year,” MVG continued.
“But staying at the top for five, ten, fifteen years? That’s what separates champions from legends. Luke has everything in front of him, but I’ve seen many big talents fade. It’s up to him to prove he’s different.”
Van Gerwen’s comments come as the pair prepare for another potential showdown at the upcoming PDC World Darts Championship, where Littler begins his title defence and aims to cement his status as the sport’s new dominant force.
The Dutchman has made no secret of his desire to reclaim his position as the world’s best, and many believe he is using psychological pressure to unsettle the defending champion.
Littler has previously brushed off criticism from older players, insisting he is focused solely on improving and enjoying his career. Sources close to his camp say he is unfazed by Van Gerwen’s remarks and fully expects more verbal jabs as the tournament approaches.
Fans, meanwhile, are eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this growing rivalry — one that pits darts’ biggest superstar of the last decade against its most exciting young prodigy.
Regardless of Van Gerwen’s warning, one thing is certain: if the two meet on the Ally Pally stage again, sparks will fly.
