Michael van Gerwen claims Netflix’s £501,000 ‘Beat Luke Littler’ are ‘sending people away who are a little bit too good’

MICHAEL VAN GERWEN has raised eyebrows by claiming Netflix are rejecting darts players who are considered “a little bit too good” from their £501,000 Beat Luke Littler event.

The three-time world champion questioned how contestants are being selected for the huge live show, which will give 20 amateur players the chance to face world No.1 Luke Littler and win a life-changing £501,000.

Thousands of aspiring darts players are taking part in a demanding three-stage audition process, with regional heats being held in London and Manchester this month to determine the final 20 contestants.

The London auditions took place last weekend, with SunSport attending the event and watching hopefuls compete for a place on the show.

To qualify, players from countries including Brazil, Italy and the Falkland Islands must first demonstrate their ability by checking out 501 in 24 darts or fewer.

A panel featuring darts legends and experts, including 16-time world champion Phil Taylor, PDC chairman Barry Hearn and Sky Sports pundit Laura Turner, helped assess the contestants and decide who would progress.

Despite the process, Van Gerwen suggested that not every amateur player is being given the opportunity to compete.

Speaking to Chris Hammer, the Dutch star said: “They’re sending people away who are a little bit too good and things like that. That’s a bit naughty.”

The 20 finalists will each face Littler in a single leg of 501 when Beat Luke Littler goes live on Netflix on October 30.

After spending the day on the judging panel, Taylor praised the standard of players who turned up.

He said: “The standard has been unbelievable and there is no doubt Luke will have to bring his A-game on the night.”

The prize on offer makes the event even more intriguing. Any amateur who manages to defeat Littler will pocket a staggering £501,000.

Gary Lineker will host the show, while Richard Osman will provide analysis.

Netflix has since responded to Van Gerwen’s comments, insisting that the auditions are open to amateur players.

A Netflix spokesperson said thousands of darts fans had already auditioned in London, with even more expected to attend the Manchester auditions.

They added that Netflix and the Professional Darts Corporation had created a thorough three-stage audition process to select the 20 finalists, stressing that auditions are open to all players who currently have amateur status.