“In the past, he would’ve ended up in a row over that, trying to humiliate someone like that” – Littler plays with opponents, according to Van der Voort

Luke Littler’s rise has already reshaped the modern darts landscape, and according to Vincent van der Voort, the teenage superstar has added a new — and slightly mischievous — layer to his game.

Speaking after Littler’s latest dominant display, Van der Voort suggested that the 18-year-old is now so confident on the big stage that he has begun toying with opponents in ways that would have sparked controversy in earlier eras.

Van der Voort: “He plays with his opponents now”

The Dutch star didn’t hold back as he assessed Littler’s performance style and in-match behaviour:

“In the past, he would’ve ended up in a row over that. Trying to humiliate someone like that would have caused a real argument. But Littler gets away with it — because he’s simply that good.”

Van der Voort was referring to several moments where Littler slowed down, smirked, or showboated while producing outrageous scoring or finishing — small gestures that delighted fans but frustrated rivals.

According to Van der Voort, Littler’s ability to “float between confidence and cheekiness” is becoming one of the most fascinating subplots in the sport.

A new generation with a new attitude

Darts has a rich history of fiery tempers and clashes, especially when one player attempts to rattle or embarrass another. Van der Voort hinted that if Littler had tried these antics years ago, the reaction from veteran pros would have been immediate and explosive.

But today?

The teenager’s talent is so overwhelming that few players dare confront him.

“He just plays on a different level,” Van der Voort added.
“When you can back it up with 110 averages and insane checkouts, what can anyone say?”

Fans love the showmanship

Littler’s growing flair — from swaggering walk-ons to cheeky glances after big checkouts — has made him a fan favourite. Social media exploded after Van der Voort’s comments, with supporters calling Littler:

• “Box office”
• “A showman in the Phil Taylor mould — but cooler”
• “The future of darts, personality and all”

Opponents less amused

While some players appreciate Littler’s brilliance, others have privately admitted that his confidence can border on intimidating — and occasionally irritating.

One unnamed pro reportedly said:

“If any of us did what he does, we’d be slaughtered. But he’s Luke Littler. You just have to take it.”

Littler unfazed: “I just play my game”

Asked about Van der Voort’s remarks, Littler brushed off the idea that he deliberately humiliates opponents.

The teenager offered a typically blunt response:

“I just play my game. If people don’t like it, that’s not my problem.”

A superstar rewriting the rules

Whether you see it as swagger, psychological warfare, or harmless fun, one thing is certain:

Luke Littler is changing darts — not just with his scoring power, but with his personality.

And as Van der Voort suggests, the rest of the field may simply have to adjust to a new kind of brilliance.