The darts world is abuzz with debate following James Wade’s dramatic exit from the stage after his defeat to Luke Littler in the 2025 World Matchplay final at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens. The 42-year-old veteran, known as “The Machine,” faced the 18-year-old prodigy in a thrilling showdown, only to leave abruptly before Littler’s trophy presentation, prompting accusations of disrespect from pundits and fans alike. Littler’s 18-13 victory, which saw him claim the Phil Taylor Trophy and complete darts’ coveted Triple Crown, was overshadowed by Wade’s actions, reigniting discussions about sportsmanship in the sport.
The final, held on July 27, 2025, was a high-octane clash that showcased both players’ brilliance. Wade stormed to a commanding 5-0 lead, capitalizing on Littler’s slow start with clinical finishing, hitting 44.8% of his doubles and averaging 101.54. But Littler, the reigning world champion, mounted a stunning comeback, unleashing 17 180s and a 107.24 average to secure his first World Matchplay title at just 18 years, six months, and six days, shattering Wade’s record as the youngest champion. “It means absolutely everything, Phil Taylor was my idol,” Littler told reporters, reflecting on his triumph. “I think James started to drop off a bit and I started to find my best darts.”
Wade’s departure from the stage as Littler prepared to lift the trophy drew sharp criticism. Sky Sports pundits Michael Bridge and Chris Murphy, speaking on the *Love the Darts* podcast, labeled the move “disrespectful.” Bridge clarified, “I got it clarified that there was no issues with Luke or the crowd or anything like that. He was just angry at himself, which is fine, but we would have liked to have heard from him.” Murphy was more direct: “I thought it was disrespectful for him not to be on the stage at the end. Whether he does an interview or not is up to him, but not to be there when Luke is receiving the trophy, that is disrespectful. Just stand there for a minute and applaud, and then say, ‘I don’t want to talk.’” Fans echoed the sentiment on social media, with one writing, “Walking off stage before Littler gets his trophy says it all about him. Bit of a p***k. Well done the Nuke!” Another added, “Nice to see Wade stay on stage to watch Littler lift the trophy. Not! P**s poor that.”
Despite the backlash, Wade’s interactions with Littler during the match were cordial. Littler revealed that Wade offered gracious words after the final dart, saying, “Well played, brilliant tournament and well done to you.” The pair had practiced together during the tournament, with Wade issuing a blunt challenge beforehand: “He literally told me: ‘Get up off your a**e and practice with me. 121,’” Littler recalled, noting their work on checkouts from 121 to 170. This tough-love mentoring seemed to fuel Littler’s focus, though Wade later denied any intent to disrupt his opponent’s rhythm, insisting, “I’m not like that,” when Littler commented on his slow walks to the board.
Wade’s history of controversial behavior added fuel to the fire. Earlier in 2025, he was criticized for licking Luke Humphries’ neck before their UK Open quarterfinal and kissing Raymond van Barneveld’s neck at the Belgian Darts Open, actions branded “disgusting” by former player Paul Nicholson. In 2018, Wade faced backlash for shouting in Seigo Asada’s ear during a World Championship match, with pundit Wayne Mardle calling it “bullying” and “nasty.” These incidents have painted Wade as a polarizing figure, despite his impressive resume, which includes the 2007 World Matchplay title and a 2021 UK Open crown.
Wade, who reached his seventh World Matchplay final with a 20-18 epic over Jonny Clayton, later addressed the controversy, emphasizing his pride in reaching the final. “It has been a brilliant week of highs and ultimately I’m so happy I made it to the finals last night,” he wrote, thanking his family, fans, and sponsors. He praised Littler’s performance, acknowledging the teenager’s dominance after their UK Open final in March, where Littler won 11-2. “I’m the senior dart player, but he absolutely smashed me to bits!” Wade admitted then. “He was the far superior player. Fair play to Luke. At the moment, he is comfortably the best or second best dart player in the world.”
The incident has sparked broader discussions about sportsmanship in darts, where tradition—though not a formal rule—encourages runners-up to remain on stage for the winner’s moment. While the PDC has clarified that Wade faces no punishment, the episode has divided fans, with some defending his emotional exit as a natural response to a crushing defeat. As Littler basks in his Triple Crown glory, joining legends like Phil Taylor and Michael van Gerwen, Wade’s legacy remains complex—a blend of undeniable talent and occasional lapses in etiquette that continue to stir debate.
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