Luke Littler’s Frustration with Darts’ Demands: The Non-Stop Schedule
Luke Littler has revealed what he “doesn’t like” about darts—the relentless, non-stop schedule that leaves little room for personal life or rest—while making a promise to his girlfriend Faith Millar for more quality time in 2026. In an interview with Darts News on October 2, 2025, the 18-year-old world champion opened up about the toll of his packed 2025 calendar, which included over 120 matches and major wins like the World Championship (£500,000), Premier League (£275,000), and World Matchplay (£200,000). “The schedule is non-stop—that’s what I don’t like about darts,” Littler admitted, explaining how it prevented him from taking a proper holiday or reflecting on his achievements. He promised Millar, his girlfriend since early 2025, dedicated downtime: “I’ll take the time to go away with my girlfriend and family, without even thinking about darts.”
#### The Schedule Strain: A Breakout Year’s Downside
Littler’s 2025 has been historic—becoming the youngest Triple Crown holder—but the grind has exposed vulnerabilities. His selective Pro Tour participation (only about 12 of 27 Players Championship events) stems from the exhaustion, contributing to his elbow niggle and recent withdrawal from PC 28, dropping him to tied 58th on the PCOM (£21,000) and risking exclusion from the £600,000 Players Championship Finals in Minehead. “I didn’t have the chance [for a getaway] this year,” he told Darts News, vowing 2026 changes like fewer events to prioritize recovery and relationships. This promise to Millar, a 19-year-old beauty therapist from Wigan, reflects his desire for balance amid fame’s pressures, including trolls targeting their romance (which went public in July with a courtside kiss at the World Matchplay).
Promise to Faith: Holidays and “No Darts Thoughts”
Littler’s commitment to Millar—who has supported him at events like the Australian Darts Masters—includes “proper holidays” in 2026, potentially in Spain or with family, to “switch off completely.” This follows his split from ex Eloise Milburn in July 2024 due to travel strains, and amid warnings from his parents to “keep the friends I have.” He dismissed trolls as “jealous,” insisting Millar keeps him “normal.” The promise signals maturity, echoing Phil Taylor’s advice to avoid burnout, but risks further PCOM slips if he skips more events.
Littler’s 2025: Triumphs Amid the Grind
Despite the schedule woes, Littler’s year is legendary:
– **World Championship**: Youngest champion (7-3 over van Gerwen).
– **Premier League**: Nine-darter en route to title.
– **World Matchplay**: 18-13 over Wade for Triple Crown.
| Event | Result | Schedule Impact |
|——-|——–|—————–|
| World Championship | Champion | January peak; set non-stop tone |
| Premier League | Champion | Weekly grind; nine-darter vs. Humphries |
| World Matchplay | Champion | July triumph; public with Millar |
| PC 28 | Withdrew | Elbow from schedule; PCOM risk |
Fan Reactions: Support for Balance
Social media praised Littler’s honesty under #LittlerBreak: “Non-stop darts is brutal—good on Luke for promising Faith time off” (thousands of likes). Experts like Wayne Mardle agree: “At 18, rest is key to longevity.” With the World Grand Prix opener vs. van Veen looming (October 6), Littler’s revelation underscores the human side of stardom—promising Millar balance while chasing more glory.
