‘Don’t even know why’ – Luke Littler addresses controversial tactic after scare against world no.94
Luke Littler, the 18-year-old darts prodigy, found himself at the center of controversy during his first-round match at the 2025 Australian Darts Masters in Wollongong, where he narrowly defeated world No. 94 Haupai Puha 6-5 in a final-leg decider. The teenage sensation sparked debate with a tactical decision that some fans deemed “disrespectful,” prompting Littler to offer an explanation post-match: “I don’t even know why [I did it]. I think it’s just for myself.”
The incident occurred when Littler, leading 5-4 and with 291 points remaining, hit two treble 20s but then deliberately threw a single 1 to set up a potential 170 “Big Fish” checkout, rather than completing a 180. The move backfired when he missed the 170, allowing Puha to level the score at 5-5. Littler later reflected, “Maybe I should’ve tried hitting the 180 because I knew that Haupai had the darts in the last leg. But I just felt I’d try and leave it and finish it.” He ultimately held his nerve to win the deciding leg, advancing to the quarter-finals.
The tactic drew sharp criticism from darts fans on X, with @Wim_NL180 posting, “Single 1 on 171 on purpose to leave 170 is just disrespectful towards your opponent imo.” Another user, @DanJones3142, questioned, “How are people defending this? He’s playing professional darts and it’s obviously not playing to the best of your ability.” The backlash highlighted the fine line between showmanship and sportsmanship, especially in a high-stakes match against an underdog like Puha, a New Zealand player ranked significantly lower.
Littler’s explanation suggested the move was more instinctive than calculated, aimed at setting up a crowd-pleasing finish rather than undermining his opponent. Despite the scare, he progressed through the tournament with authority, defeating Damon Heta 6-3 in the quarter-finals and Stephen Bunting 7-4 in the semi-finals before clinching the title with an 8-4 victory over Mike De Decker. The win marked his fourth World Series title and his first of 2025, following a five-month title drought.
The controversy didn’t overshadow Littler’s triumph, but it added fuel to discussions about his bold playing style. Facing hecklers who called him “washed” and shouted “rubbish” during misses, Littler let his performance respond, stating, “The darts did the talking.” His confidence was palpable as he declared, “This is the most confident I’ve felt in a very long time,” buoyed by his recent World Matchplay success and this Australian victory.
As Littler prepares for the New Zealand Darts Masters, the incident serves as a reminder of his flair for the dramatic, even if it courts controversy. With the PDC World Championship looming, where he’s favored to defend his title, Littler’s ability to navigate pressure—both from opponents and critics—will be key. For more details, check coverage on Dartsnews.com or posts on X from @DartsNow_. If you have a specific article or further details, share them, and I can tailor the response!
