“He must be out of his mind”: Paul Lim baffled that Luke Littler wants to avoid him in PDC World Darts Championship draw
“He must be out of his mind”: Paul Lim baffled that Luke Littler wants to avoid him in PDC World Darts Championship draw
Paul Lim has been left amused and slightly baffled after discovering that teenage sensation Luke Littler would prefer to avoid him in the draw at the PDC World Darts Championship, joking that the young star “must be out of his mind.”
The evergreen Singaporean, nicknamed The Singapore Slinger, was reacting to comments made by Littler ahead of the tournament at Alexandra Palace, where Lim continues to defy age and expectations with yet another appearance on darts’ biggest stage.
Littler, widely regarded as the sport’s most exciting young talent, recently admitted there are certain opponents he would rather not face early in the competition — and Lim was one of them. The remark raised eyebrows, given the vast difference in age and career stage between the two players.
Lim, however, took the comments in good humour. Laughing off the suggestion, he said Littler “must be out of his mind” to worry about facing him, insisting he is simply happy to still be competing at the highest level.
Despite the light-hearted response, Lim’s reputation at the PDC World Darts Championship explains why even the game’s brightest prospects remain cautious. Now in his seventies, Lim has built a career on frustrating opponents with his measured pace, sharp finishing and calm temperament — qualities that can be especially dangerous under the intense pressure of the World Championship.
Lim’s history at Ally Pally is legendary. He remains one of the most iconic figures the tournament has ever seen, most famously landing a nine-dart finish that still ranks among the greatest moments in darts history. His longevity and ability to rise to the occasion have made him a tricky draw for players of all generations.
For Littler, the respect shown towards Lim underlines his maturity despite his age. While the teenager is known for his fearless approach and explosive scoring, his comments suggest a keen awareness that experience and composure can be just as threatening as raw power on the biggest stage.
Lim, meanwhile, made it clear that pressure lies firmly with the younger stars. With expectations and headlines following players like Littler, the veteran believes he has the freedom to play without fear. “They’re the ones expected to win,” Lim has said previously. “I just go up there and enjoy throwing my darts.”
As the World Darts Championship continues to deliver compelling storylines, the prospect of a clash between one of the sport’s oldest competitors and its newest superstar would capture the imagination of fans worldwide. Whether or not the draw ever brings Paul Lim and Luke Littler together, Lim’s reaction has once again reminded everyone that experience still commands huge respect at Alexandra Palace — and that some names remain uncomfortable to face, no matter how old they are.
