‘Steam would be coming out of my ears!’ – Luke Littler called out for ‘unthinkable’ actions as Michael van Gerwen left shocked

Michael van Gerwen has expressed surprise over Luke Littler’s decision to skip recent tournaments, calling the move “unthinkable” for someone so young and talented.

The 18-year-old sensation missed the International Darts Open last month—his second European Tour absence in just two weeks, having also skipped the European Darts Open in March. So far this year, Littler has only participated in one European Tour event, the Belgian Open—which he won.

Despite the absences, Van Gerwen acknowledged Littler’s immense talent, noting the teenager has beaten him in seven of their last ten meetings.

“He’s a phenomenon, no doubt,” Van Gerwen said. “But it’s surprising to see reluctance to attend events at his age. That would’ve been unthinkable for me.”

Managing a Packed Schedule

Littler is set to return to action over the Easter weekend at the German Darts Grand Prix, facing Cam Crabtree in the evening session. Given the demanding 2025 darts calendar, his choice to pace himself might be a strategic decision to preserve longevity and performance.

While Van Gerwen offered some subtle criticism, he also praised Littler’s potential and consistency.

“He’s not a flash in the pan. He throws brilliantly in the Premier League, even if he sometimes exits early in Pro Tour events. Maybe that frustrates him—but you wouldn’t know it. Me? Steam would be coming out of my ears!”

Van Gerwen Talks Rivalries and the Future

The Dutchman also voiced concern over the expanding darts calendar, suggesting it’s diluted the impact of big-name rivalries.

“These big matchups happen too often now. Back in the day, Van Gerwen vs Taylor was a major event. Now if I lose to someone four times in a row? It doesn’t even matter—there are 30 more matches coming.”

In an interview with Dutch outlet HLN.be, Van Gerwen dismissed any retirement rumors and confirmed his commitment to the sport:

“I’ve just signed a new deal with Winmau through 2035. I’m going full throttle for at least another 10 years. I’m still young and there’s plenty left in the tank. I’m better than most players on the Tour—I just need to prove it more often.”