Luke Littler’s Shortlived Return Ends with Another Tournament Withdrawal
Luke Littler, the 18-year-old darts prodigy and reigning PDC World Champion, withdrew from Players Championship 25 in Milton Keynes on August 26, 2025, just a day after a grueling 6-5 third-round win over Beau Greaves at Players Championship 24. The withdrawal, announced hours before the event, disappointed fans who anticipated his continued dominance, with many speculating fatigue or strategic scheduling as the cause following his intense clash with Greaves (*DartsNews.com*, August 26, 2025).
Littler’s Withdrawal and Recent Performance
Littler’s return to the ProTour on August 25 was marked by a thrilling battle against Greaves, where he averaged 96.64 but was pushed to a last-leg decider by her 102.28 average (*SportBible.com*). The match appeared to take a toll, as he lost 6-4 to Rob Cross in the next round, with fans noting he looked “completely done” (@Nukeaholic180, August 25, 2025). His subsequent withdrawal from Players Championship 25, confirmed by @DartsNews02 on X, sparked concern, with one post stating, “Luke Littler’s ProTour return shortlived, withdraws prior to PC25 after Last 16 run” (@DartsNews02, August 26, 2025). This marks another in a series of withdrawals, including the 2024 Hungarian Darts Trophy, which Littler jokingly linked to the EAFC25 release (*DartsNews.com*, September 20, 2024).
Context and Speculation
Littler’s decision comes amid a packed 2025 schedule, with six major PDC titles, including the World Championship, Premier League, and World Matchplay (*BBC Sport*). His withdrawal from the European Darts Grand Prix in May 2025, due to hostile German crowds, had raised questions about his World Cup participation, though he later confirmed he’d play in Frankfurt (*SkySports.com*, May 2, 2025). Fans on X speculated about fatigue, with one writing, “Beau drained Littler’s tank! No wonder he pulled out” (@BABYMETALFAN97, August 25, 2025). Others suggested he’s prioritizing bigger events like the upcoming European Tour in Antwerp, where he’s favored to add to his £1.2 million season earnings (*SportingNews.com*).
