Luke Littler, the 18-year-old defending champion and world champion, expressed strong confidence ahead of the 2025 Premier League Darts Play-Offs at The O2 Arena on May 29, 2025, where he faces Gerwyn Price in the semi-finals. Speaking to Sky Sports and other outlets, Littler addressed his rivalry with Price, his record-breaking season, and his long-term ambitions, while dismissing retirement rumors sparked by Nathan Aspinall’s claim that he could retire at 23.
Littler’s Comments on Facing Gerwyn Price
Littler, who topped the Premier League table with a record 45 points and six nightly wins, responded to Price’s preference to face him in the semi-finals, suggesting the Welshman might regret targeting him. “I’ve dominated in many ways. He might live to regret it if I do get the win over him tomorrow,” Littler told Oche180. He questioned Price’s strategy, noting, “It would be a disaster if I wasn’t to go on and retain my Premier League crown,” per @Tungsten_Tales on X. Littler’s confidence stems from his season dominance, including a 6-3 win over Price in Rotterdam and a nine-darter against Michael van Gerwen in Cardiff.
Addressing Retirement Rumors
Littler firmly shut down speculation about an early retirement, sparked by Aspinall’s comment that his £4 million fortune could see him “be off in about five years.” “I’m here for the long haul, at least 10 years,” Littler told Sky Sports, aiming to surpass Phil Taylor’s 16 world titles. He added, “It’s crazy to even think about retiring. If I win 16 world titles like Phil, I’ll retire,” per @Oche180. Posts on X, like @STVSport, highlighted his focus on longevity.
Season Highlights and Play-Offs Context
Littler’s 2025 Premier League campaign was historic, with a record six nightly wins, including a 6-3 victory over Luke Humphries in Sheffield on May 22. His 108.91 average and eight 180s in Sheffield underscored his form. Having won the 2024 final 11-7 against Humphries with a nine-darter, Littler is favored to defend his title. He emphasized the strategic advantage of topping the table: “Playing the first semi-final is so crucial because there is not that big of a turnaround.” Humphries faces Aspinall in the other semi-final, with the final offering a £275,000 prize.
Rivalry with Humphries and World Cup Teammate
Littler also spoke warmly of Luke Humphries, his World Cup of Darts partner for June 2025 in Frankfurt, posting on Instagram, “Dream team confirmed, bring on the World Cup.” Despite their rivalry—Humphries beat him in the 2023 World Championship final, while Littler won the 2024 Premier League—Littler respects Humphries’ form, noting their Aberdeen clash averaged over 115. Humphries called Littler “the best player in the world,” predicting a tough Play-Offs.
Conclusion
Luke Littler enters the 2025 Premier League Darts Play-Offs brimming with confidence, warning Gerwyn Price he may regret targeting him and dismissing retirement rumors with a vow to chase Phil Taylor’s 16 titles. With a record 45 points and six nightly wins, including a 6-3 Sheffield triumph, Littler is poised to defend his crown against Price, Humphries, and Aspinall. His “dream team” bond with Humphries for the World Cup adds intrigue. Like Raducanu, Collins, Gauff, Grealish, and de Minaur, Littler’s focus under pressure defines his meteoric rise. Watch live on Sky Sports from 7:00 PM BST.
