Gary Anderson, the two-time world darts champion, has launched a scathing critique of Luke Littler and the emerging generation of darts players, labeling them “boring” and lamenting the absence of the camaraderie and banter that defined his era. The 54-year-old Scot, known as “The Flying Scotsman,” made the remarks following his 10-5 second-round victory over Luke Woodhouse at the 2025 World Matchplay in Blackpool on July 20, 2025. Anderson expressed nostalgia for the “good old days,” recalling how he, Phil Taylor, Adrian Lewis, and Kevin Painter would share laughs and engage in lively banter backstage, contrasting this with the current crop of players he claims are “too busy looking at their phones” with earphones in.
Anderson’s comments specifically target Littler, the 18-year-old PDC World Champion, whose reserved off-stage demeanor—often spent gaming or watching Manchester United—has drawn similar remarks from peers like Stephen Bunting. Despite Littler’s impressive 10-2 first-round win over Ryan Searle, averaging over 108, Anderson suggested the younger players lack the personality and social engagement of past stars. He argued that today’s professionals, focused on their “job” and the financial opportunities it brings, miss the lighthearted spirit that once enriched the sport, stating, “You need to have a laugh… nowadays, there’s not much of that going about.”
The rant has sparked mixed reactions, with some fans and analysts defending Littler’s focus and results, while others nod to Anderson’s longing for darts’ rowdier past. Littler, set to face Jermaine Wattimena in the next round on July 23, has dismissed such criticism as “banter” and remains unfazed, focusing on his title pursuit. Anderson’s outburst, aired during the tournament’s second day, reflects his ongoing commentary on the sport’s evolution, though it risks overshadowing his own competitive resurgence as he targets Matchplay glory.
