Darts news: ‘The next big one’ - Luke Littler targets World Grand Prix glory following management split
Luke ‘The Nuke’ Littler admitted the World Grand Prix is ‘the next big one for him’ as it remains one of the rare PDC major tournaments he is yet to win.
Littler looks set to right his wrongs from last year’s early exit as he qualified into the last 16 - where he is set to face last year’s winner Mike De Decker.
This comes after beating familiar foe Gian van Veen in the opening round, writes Sports News Blitz’s William Thomas.
Story of the tournament so far
The Dutchman can count himself unlucky to go out in the opening round as his all-time 106.41 tournament average proved to not be enough to beat the reigning World Champion, as both players provided a darting classic in Leicester.
Littler has stated his dislike in the past for the unique doubles format at the Grand Prix which requires players to hit a double or the bull before starting each leg.
As per the Sun, Littler said: “Obviously it’s the next big one for me but I’ll be honest, I didn’t like it last time.
“I didn’t like the double start, it’s one of the toughest tournaments to win.
“There is the World Championship, the Matchplay, the Premier League. But the double start – if you don’t get off, then you’re in trouble.
“I can’t say I really practice the double start often but obviously leading up to it, I think I’ll have to just get used to it."
‘The Nuke’ is on an unbelievable trophy run, winning the World Matchplay in June to make it seven PDC major tournament wins this year, and he will be looking to add the World Grand Prix trophy to his ever-growing collection.
It currently remains untouched by the young darting sensation.
‘The Nuke’ announces shock split from ZFX management
Luke Littler made a shocking announcement on his Instagram prior to his opening-round clash stating his plans to look after his own career, splitting with Martin Fould ZFX management.
His split certainly came at a surprise ahead of what people might say is the busiest darts period of the year.
Following his triumph over Gian Van Veen, Littler told Sportsboom: “I'm on my own. Just as myself, I think it's better.
"Obviously I've got my family to support me and obviously Martin [Foulds] had done his job, but I think it was the right time.
“Booking flights, hotels and all that stuff and we're on our own.
"I'm going to have help from Garry [Plummer] at Target as well. It's going to be massive; we're going in the right direction.
"No one knows what's been going on behind the scenes. And I won't be saying anything, but it was just the right time.”
“I want to say a massive thank you to ZXF Sports Martin Fould , for everything they’ve done for me so far in my career,” he continued.
World Matchplay champion exit confirmed
Prior to his opening-round match, Littler confirmed his exit on his X account.
He said: “We’ve had some amazing times together over the last 5 years and I’ll always be grateful for the advice and support that’s helped me get to this point.
“As my career moves forward and the schedule gets busier, we’ve agreed it’s the right time for me to take the next step with new representation.
“Martin has been brilliant for me, and I wish him and everyone at ZXF the very best.”
Littler has been represented by Martin Fould since the age of 13 but has stated he is very excited for the future ahead.
