Luke Littler, the 18-year-old darts phenom and reigning PDC World Champion, has sent shockwaves through the sporting world with a cryptic social media video announcing he is “taking a step back” from the oche. The Warrington teenager, who has dominated 2025 with six major titles including the World Championship (£500,000) and Premier League (£315,000), posted the 50-second clip to his Instagram and X accounts on September 18, 2025, just days before his opening match at the Hungarian Darts Trophy in Budapest. In the emotional message, Littler reflects on his “awesome career” before revealing his decision to pause, but eagle-eyed fans quickly spotted a twist that suggests the announcement may not be as final as it seems.
The Announcement: “It’ll Shock Some People”
The video, set to somber music, opens with Littler seated in a dimly lit room, his iconic purple shirt draped over a chair. Speaking directly to the camera, he recounts his whirlwind rise: “I’ve had an awesome career, couldn’t ask for much better for myself. It’s been full on for two years, I’ve done many great things—the Premier League at the age of 17 on debut, the nine-darters on telly, winning the World Championship at 18, the youngest to ever do it.” He pauses, his voice cracking slightly, before delivering the bombshell: “I just want to say thanks to all my fans, the support over the past two years has been phenomenal. It’ll shock some people that I’m taking a step back. It’s not been an easy decision, now I want to focus on something that I really, really love.”
As Littler walks off camera, leaving his darts behind, a muffled voice—believed to be his own—is heard whispering, “Do you think they’ll fall for that?” The clip ends abruptly, leaving viewers stunned and speculating wildly. Posted just 48 hours before the Hungarian Darts Trophy (September 19-21), where Littler is seeded to face either Joe Cullen or Lukas Wenig in the first round, the timing has amplified the intrigue.
Fan Theories: A Prank for EA FC 26?
Darts fans were quick to dissect the video, with many theorizing it’s an elaborate prank tied to Littler’s passion for video games. The announcement coincides with the release of *EA Sports FC 26* on September 26, 2025—the latest iteration of the popular football simulation series (formerly FIFA) that Littler is a known devotee of. “Do what you have to do Luke, we will support you all the way bud,” one fan commented, while another quipped, “Is this rage bait or what?” A third speculated, “He’s taking a step back… to 8 foot 6, so everyone else has a chance. Respect it ❤️🎯.”
Littler’s history of playful social media antics, including a July 2025 *Celebrity Gogglebox* appearance where he joked about retirement after his Premier League win, lends credence to the prank theory. The video’s production—dramatic music, reflective tone, and the telltale whisper—mirrors his humorous style, and the Hungarian Darts Trophy entry confirms he’s not stepping away immediately. PDC officials have not commented, but insiders suggest it’s a lighthearted nod to his gaming love, with Littler even featuring as a playable character in *EA FC 26*.
Littler’s Phenomenal Rise: A ‘Step Back’ in Perspective
Since bursting onto the scene as a 16-year-old wildcard at the 2024 World Darts Championship—reaching the final and earning £200,000 despite a loss to Luke Humphries—Littler has redefined the sport. His 2025 has been nothing short of historic: winning the World Championship at Ally Pally in January (becoming the youngest champion ever), the Premier League in May, the World Matchplay in July (with a record 64 maximums), the UK Open, Grand Slam of Darts, and World Series Finals runner-up. With 17 PDC titles and over £2 million in career earnings, Littler’s net worth is estimated at £1.5-6 million, bolstered by sponsorships with Target Darts, boohooMAN, and Xbox.
The announcement, if genuine, would be a seismic shift for darts, where Littler has been the driving force behind record viewership (3.75 million for the 2024 Worlds final) and £25 million in 2025 prize money. PDC supremo Barry Hearn called him “the next Tiger Woods for darts,” crediting the “Littler effect” for global expansion, including new events in Belgium and the US. However, Littler’s packed schedule—17 tournaments this year—has led to whispers of burnout, with him admitting fatigue after his World Series final loss to Michael van Gerwen on September 14.
Reactions: Shock, Support, and Speculation
The video has amassed over 1 million views in hours, with fans divided between concern and amusement. “If this is real, darts won’t be the same—take care, Luke” (@DartsFanatic on X). Others saw the prank: “The whisper at the end? Classic Nuke troll for FC 26. Genius!” (@TheNukeArmy). Fellow pros like Humphries posted support: “Whatever you decide, legend—here if you need” (@LukeHumphries180).
Littler’s family, including parents Anthony and Lisa, have been his rock since his magnetic dartboard days at age 18 months. A break, if real, could allow time for his driving license quest (failed theory six times) and personal life, including his relationship with Faith Millar.
What’s Next for The Nuke?
Littler is scheduled for the Hungarian Darts Trophy this weekend (September 19-21), where he’s favored to win his first European Tour title. If the announcement is a jest, expect a follow-up video; if genuine, it could reshape darts’ landscape. Either way, Littler’s “step back”—prank or pause—reminds us of his youth amid the whirlwind. As he said in the clip, “The support has been phenomenal.” From Warrington to the world stage, The Nuke’s journey continues—whatever shape it takes.
