In the high-stakes world of professional darts, where precision meets psychology, Luke Littler has emerged not only as a prodigious talent but also as a master of subtle mind games. The 18-year-old world champion, who has taken the sport by storm, employs unconventional tactics behind the scenes that have left even seasoned veterans like Stephen Bunting both baffled and impressed. In a recent revelation, Bunting, a two-time World Darts Championship semi-finalist, described Littler’s pre-match behavior as “very strange,” shedding light on the unique approach that has propelled the teenager to the pinnacle of darts.
Littler’s meteoric rise began at the 2024 PDC World Darts Championship, where, at just 16, he became the youngest player to reach the final. Since then, his pinpoint accuracy with his 23-gram darts and his unflappable demeanor have made him a household name, earning over £1 million in his first professional year. But it’s his off-stage habits that have sparked intrigue. Bunting, speaking ahead of a Premier League Darts clash, painted a vivid picture of Littler’s pre-match routine. “We see him week in, week out on the Pro Tour. He’s literally sat there on his phone, watching Manchester United play, or he’ll be playing a game,” Bunting revealed. Unlike most players who dedicate hours to practice, Littler takes a nonchalant approach. “He very rarely practises, he’ll probably stand up for 20 minutes, throw for the bull, and it’s game on. He’s doing everything you’re taught not to do. But it works for him.”
This laid-back attitude, Bunting noted, is a form of psychological warfare. By appearing disengaged— engrossed in his phone or casually chatting with friends—Littler projects an air of effortless confidence that unnerves opponents. “It’s very strange,” Bunting admitted, reflecting on how Littler’s relaxed demeanor contrasts with the intense focus expected in a sport where margins are razor-thin. Yet, this unconventional preparation has yielded extraordinary results. Littler’s ability to step up and deliver, often averaging over 100 in matches, mirrors the approach of double world champion Gary Anderson, whom Bunting compared to Littler. “I think Gary Anderson is very similar, that’s the way he approaches the game, he doesn’t really practice that much. He gets up and averages 110 or whatever it is,” Bunting said, highlighting how Littler’s minimalist warm-up defies traditional training norms.
The psychological edge doesn’t stop at his pre-match routine. Littler’s interactions in the practice room add another layer to his mind games. During warm-ups, players throw for the bullseye to determine who starts a match, a ritual ripe for banter. Littler has recounted how he spars verbally with three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen. “Van Gerwen throws first and every time I’ll go over to him, he’ll be like, ‘I’m ready for the bull.’ I’m like, ‘Are you, Michael, yeah?’” Littler shared. When Van Gerwen teases, asking how many darts Littler needs, the teenager cheekily responds, “I’ll have nine, Michael,” confidently claiming the maximum. This playful exchange, Littler noted, is his way of getting “in each other’s heads a bit,” a tactic that keeps opponents off balance.
Littler’s impact extends beyond the oche. Bunting praised the teenager for revitalizing darts, drawing in new fans with his charisma and talent. “Luke Littler has brought a ray of sunshine to our sport, and long may it continue,” Bunting enthused. “He’s bringing new followers in daily, and people are talking about it on the TV.” Indeed, Littler’s 2025 World Championship triumph, where he defeated Van Gerwen 7-3 to become the youngest-ever champion, cemented his status as a global phenomenon. His semi-final thrashing of Bunting 6-1 showcased his dominance, though the match sparked controversy when Dave Chisnall criticized Bunting’s frequent fist-bumps with Littler as “weird.” Bunting, undeterred, defended his sportsmanship, saying, “I’m very respectful for what he is doing for our game.”
As Littler prepares for the next Premier League night, his mind games continue to captivate. His ability to blend youthful nonchalance with ruthless precision has redefined darts, making him both a formidable opponent and a cultural icon. For Bunting and others, facing Littler means bracing not just for his darts but for the psychological chess match that begins long before the first throw. In a sport where focus is everything, Littler’s “very strange” tactics are proving to be his sharpest weapon.
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