“I was followed! I did three U-turns and he did the same” – Luke Littler left “shaking” and “nervous” as paparazzi hound 18-year-old just days after passing driving test

Luke Littler’s life has moved fast. Too fast, at times.

Just days after passing his driving test, the 18-year-old darts sensation has revealed a frightening encounter with paparazzi that left him “shaking” and questioning how quickly fame can turn from exciting to overwhelming.

The teenage star, who only recently got his driver’s licence, admitted he was left distressed after being tailed by a photographer on public roads — describing the incident as “weird, unsettling, and honestly scary.”

“I did three U-turns, and he did the same”

Speaking candidly, Littler explained how quickly the situation escalated:

“I could see a car behind me and knew something was off.
I turned around — so did he. I turned again — he did it again.
I did three U-turns in total and each time he copied me. That’s when it hit me… I was being followed.”

For a newly licensed driver still gaining confidence behind the wheel, the experience was more than just an invasion of privacy — it became a genuine safety concern.

“I’d only passed my test a few days before. My hands were shaking. I was nervous as it was driving alone, let alone having someone on my tail trying to take pictures,” he said.

The price of overnight stardom

Littler, who has rapidly become one of the most recognisable young faces in sport, admitted the reality of fame hit harder than expected.

“I knew things would change, but I never thought it would be like this. It’s one thing taking photos at events, but following someone on the road? That’s too far.”

In recent months, Littler has transitioned from breakout darts prodigy to full-scale national figure — attracting media attention not just for his talent but for his personality, lifestyle, and now, his every move.

But the teenager made it clear there has to be a line.

“I love the support from fans, I do. But that was different. I was shaking when I got home. That’s not normal.”

Calls for more protection

The incident has sparked discussion around the treatment of young athletes in the public eye, with fans and commentators urging for stronger boundaries between media coverage and personal safety.

One fan wrote:

“Let the kid drive in peace. He’s 18, not a movie star in a high-speed chase.”

Another added:

“Supporting him is one thing. Stalking him on the road is dangerous and unhinged.”

Former athletes and sports personalities also weighed in, pointing out the pressure young stars face when fame accelerates faster than life experience can keep up.

Rising star, real world stakes

Despite the scare, Littler has continued training and preparing for upcoming tournaments, making it clear he won’t let one incident knock him off course. But he hopes it serves as a wake-up call.

“I’m not saying don’t take photos at games or events. That’s part of it. But following someone home? That’s different. I’m 18 and still figuring it all out. Give me a bit of normal life where you can.”

The world may see Luke Littler as the fearless future of darts — but moments like this are a reminder he’s still just a teenager navigating a spotlight that arrived long before adulthood did