“New what? I’m on my own. It’s just myself” – Luke Littler unveils new management situation after winning World Grand Prix classic

Luke Littler, the 18-year-old darts prodigy, dropped a career-altering revelation in the aftermath of his electrifying first-round victory at the 2025 World Grand Prix, confirming he’s ditching traditional management for a self-reliant setup with limited external help. “New what? I’m on my own. It’s just myself,” the world No. 2 quipped to reporters after defeating Gian van Veen 2-0 in sets on October 7 at Leicester’s Mattioli Arena, brushing off questions about his next big move following his split from ZXF Management. Littler clarified he’s partnering with Garry Plummer from sponsor Target Darts for guidance, but insisted the core decision-making is now his alone—a bold gamble for a teen who’s already banked over £1.5 million in 2025 prize money from his Triple Crown triumphs.

The Thriller: Littler’s Grand Prix Breakthrough

Littler’s win over van Veen—a 3-1, 3-2 sets victory in the double-in/double-out format—was nothing short of spectacular, marking his first advancement in the event after first-round exits in 2023 and 2024. Despite van Veen’s record-shattering 106.47 average—the highest in World Grand Prix history—Littler countered with a blistering 105.58 of his own, the third-best ever, sealing the match with a clutch 144 checkout. “Best I’ve ever played in this format,” Littler said post-match, crediting his adaptation to the tricky double-start rule he previously “didn’t like.” The clash, hyped as a generational battle with van Veen leading their head-to-head 4-3 entering, saw Littler start legs with three 140s and dominate doubles, winning eight legs to van Veen’s two.

Fans on X (formerly Twitter) went into meltdown, with #LittlerVeen trending globally: “Gian breaks a 24-year record and STILL loses? Nuke’s unstoppable!” one post with 20k likes raved. Another hailed: “Littler’s composure under that pressure—future GOAT confirmed.” The victory, worth £7,500, propels Littler to a second-round clash with the winner of Peter Wright vs. defending champion Mike De Decker, keeping his £120,000 winner’s prize dreams alive amid PCOM risks (tied 58th, £21,000).

The Management Bombshell: “No One Knows” and Self-Reliance

Littler’s post-match admission came on the heels of his October 6 Instagram announcement parting ways with ZXF Sports after five years. The team, led by Martin Foulds, had been instrumental since Littler joined at 13, handling his 2023/24 World Championship final hype, endorsements (Target Darts, boohooMAN, Xbox), and the chaos of his 2025 Triple Crown (World Championship, Premier League, World Matchplay). “We’ve agreed it’s the right time for me to take the next step with new representation,” Littler wrote, thanking Foulds for “amazing times.”

When pressed on his successor, Littler’s coy “No one knows” ignited speculation: Modus Sports (Phil Taylor’s ex-agency) leads, with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom floated for showbiz savvy. But the teen revealed his immediate plan: Self-management with family input and help from Garry Plummer at Target Darts. “I’m going to have help from Garry at Target as well. It’s going to be massive; we’re going in the right direction,” he said. This DIY approach aligns with his burnout hints—120+ matches in 2025, elbow niggle, and a vowed lighter 2026 for girlfriend Faith Millar—allowing flexibility amid PCOM pressures and major focus.

Glen Durrant, on Sky Sports, was “surprised and shocked,” warning: “With some of those contracts he’ll be dealing with, he’ll definitely need big advice.” Littler’s net worth, nearing £2 million, demands savvy, but his Grand Prix poise suggests he’s ready for the off-oche grind too.

Implications: A New Era for ‘The Nuke’

Littler’s self-reliance could redefine his career, echoing Taylor’s early independence. With Humphries leading the Order of Merit (£1.68M), the split adds edge to their rivalry. Fans on X buzzed: “Nuke solo-managing after that van Veen masterclass? Legend move!” (#LittlerSolo trended with 100k+ mentions).

As Littler eyes De Decker or Wright next, his “on my own” bombshell proves the teen isn’t just dominating darts—he’s rewriting its business too. The £120,000 prize awaits, but Littler’s biggest win? Control of his destiny.