At just 18 years old, Luke Littler, the darts prodigy known as “The Nuke,” has already rewritten the record books, becoming the youngest PDC World Darts Champion in January 2025 with a thrilling victory over Michael van Gerwen at Alexandra Palace. Yet, as he prepares to defend his BetMGM Premier League Darts title at London’s O2 Arena, whispers of an early retirement have swirled around the Warrington sensation. Sparked by fellow player Nathan Aspinall’s claim that Littler could “be off in about five years,” these rumors have been met with a defiant response from the teenager, who insists he’s in the sport for the long haul. “I know I’ve heard that, I don’t know where he’s got that from – don’t worry, I’ll be here in 10 years,” Littler declared, shutting down speculation with the confidence of a champion.
Littler’s meteoric rise began with his runner-up finish at the 2024 World Championship, followed by a string of titles, including the 2024 Premier League, Grand Slam, World Series, and the 2025 UK Open. His dominance has made him the man to beat, a status he acknowledges with a mix of humility and resolve. “For the last 18 months, there’s been a target on my back,” he said. “Since I first came on tour and made the World Championship final, I just knew. From the moment I walked into my first Pro Tour, I knew everyone wanted to beat me. That is still the same now.” With a potential £335,000 jackpot on the line—comprising £275,000 in prize money and £60,000 in bonuses for his six nightly wins in the 2025 Premier League—Littler’s focus remains razor-sharp as he faces Gerwyn Price in the semi-finals, with world number one Luke Humphries and Aspinall battling in the other bracket.
Aspinall, a close friend and rival, fueled the retirement chatter by suggesting Littler’s grueling schedule and newfound wealth could tempt him to step away. “Even now, Luke could retire and never have to worry about money again in his life,” Aspinall said, estimating Littler’s potential earnings at £30 million. “If he’s fed up of travelling now, he’s only just got a girlfriend, and when he does have a child, does he really want to travel to Wigan on a cold Tuesday morning? Probably not.” The 33-year-old, who could face Littler in the final if both advance, added, “I hope he stays for as long as he can, but I don’t think he’ll be around at my age, so that’s 15 years. I don’t think he’ll be here at 33.” Aspinall’s comments reflect the relentless demands of the PDC circuit, where constant travel and high-stakes competition test even the most dedicated players.
Littler, however, laughed off the notion, emphasizing his passion for darts and his ambition to surpass Phil Taylor’s record of 16 world titles. “It’s crazy to even think about retiring,” he said. “If I win 16 world titles like Phil, I’ll retire, but I’m not even thinking about retirement at the minute – the money is there to be won, especially the World Championship, but not only that, everything has gone up.” His determination to emulate Taylor and van Gerwen, the only players to win back-to-back Premier League titles, drives him as he aims to cement his legacy. “I love Phil Taylor and Michael,” he added. “It would mean everything if I could do the same as them.”
The O2 Arena showdown is a chance for Littler to silence doubters and add to his growing legend. His 2024 Premier League triumph, highlighted by a stunning nine-darter against Humphries, showcased his ability to thrive under pressure. Despite his youth, Littler has matured rapidly, navigating fame, intense rivalries, and even social media spats—like his brief Instagram outburst after a loss in Germany. “I did what Gerwyn Price always does – go on Instagram, have a moan, take it down half an hour later,” he admitted with a grin. His camaraderie with Aspinall, whom he describes as a “big brother” figure, adds a personal layer to their rivalry. “He’s coming out of his shell a bit,” Aspinall noted. “I can hold a conversation with him – it’s not all about Xbox.”
As Littler prepares to face Price, a chip shop owner turned darts titan, he remains unfazed by the spotlight. His journey from junior circuits to global stardom has been marked by resilience, and his response to retirement rumors reflects a mindset built for longevity. “It is all about what you’re feeling, and I’m sure I’ll be here for a long time,” he said. With the darts world watching, Littler’s quest for another Premier League crown is not just about titles—it’s about proving he’s here to stay.
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