‘No one can get in my head’ – Luke Littler tells rivals not to bother with mind games at £1m World Darts Championship

As the 2025/26 World Darts Championship draws near, defending champion Luke Littler is making it clear: psychological games and “dark arts” won’t rattle him — and rivals should forget trying. (Yahoo Sports)

Since claiming the world title in January, Littler has enjoyed a meteoric rise. The 18-year-old has already consolidated his status as world No. 1, added multiple major titles to his name, and cemented himself as the biggest threat on the oche. (Westmeath Independent)

 Rivals tried mind games — Littler stayed focused

Controversy surrounding “mind games” re-surfaced after a recent match at the Players Championship. According to Littler, Polish pro Ricardo Pietreczko told him he expected to win only one leg when the match was tied 5–5 — a remark seemingly intended to shake Littler’s confidence. (Yahoo Sports)

But rather than wobble, Littler says he used the comment as motivation. He declared:

“No one can get in my head… if you say something to me, I’ll block it out and I’ll just get on with my job.” (Express & Star)

His response? A clinical display that ended in victory — a reminder that raw talent and composure remain a potent mix. (GB News)

 Eyes now on Ally Pally — and a £1 million prize

Littler’s defence of his world title gets underway at Alexandra Palace, with a potential £1 million prize awaiting the champion — making it one of darts’ richest tournaments ever. (The Sun)

But for opponents hoping to unsettle him with gamesmanship, Littler’s warning is simple and unapologetic:

“No one can get in my head.” (The Independent)

Given his recent form and mental toughness, only time will tell who — if anyone — can break through.