Michael Van Gerwen, one of the most iconic names in professional darts, recently shared a playful nickname he has coined for rising star Luke Littler. The friendly rivalry between Van Gerwen and Littler has captivated fans, especially as Littler’s talents have rapidly propelled him up the rankings, establishing him as one of the most promising young talents on the darting scene.
On Sunday, Littler clinched victory at the Austrian Open in Graz, where he overcame his compatriot Joe Cullen with an 8-4 win in the final. This win marked Littler’s second European Tour title and further solidified his status as a formidable competitor. “I’m just happy to get over the line again,” Littler expressed after the match. “This weekend has been good, my darts have been good, and the crowd really helped me.” His statement reflects not only his passion for the game but also the support he has garnered from fans as he continues to rise.
In addition to the Austrian Open, Littler also claimed the Belgium Open last month, showcasing his ability to perform consistently in high-stakes tournaments. He dominated throughout the Austrian Open, delivering a commanding 7-2 victory over Ross Smith in the semi-finals. Littler’s recent record speaks for itself, as the 17-year-old has only faced one defeat in his last 14 matches on the tour. That sole loss came against none other than world champion Luke Humphries in the quarter-finals of the European Grand Prix held in Germany. Despite this, his momentum remains strong as he pushes through the ranks with determination and remarkable talent.
Since his debut in December, where he reached the World Championship final, Littler has been a sensation in the darts world. His swift rise through the ranks has positioned him to compete on equal footing with some of the sport’s most experienced and revered players. Among them is Michael Van Gerwen, a player known for his competitive spirit and colorful personality. The two have clashed numerous times this season, each claiming four victories against the other in the Premier League.
This competitive back-and-forth has led to a mutual respect and a budding friendship between Van Gerwen and Littler. However, it wouldn’t be Van Gerwen without a touch of humor. The Dutchman has been calling Littler “kebab boy,” a nickname that stems from Littler’s admission in December that his go-to celebratory meal is a kebab. Van Gerwen, amused by this choice, shared the story through the *Mail Online*, saying, “We are always egging each other on and that’s what I always call him.”
Van Gerwen’s lighthearted teasing reflects the camaraderie the two share. When asked if Littler has a nickname for him, Van Gerwen responded, “I don’t know, but he doesn’t say it yet, I think. I’m twice that boy’s age, right?” With a 17-year age gap between them, Van Gerwen humorously noted that their conversations typically revolve around darts rather than any broader topics. “We just have a good relationship, but real conversations we haven’t had,” he continued. “I sometimes ask him something, it’s always darts-related. So should I start talking politics with a 17-year-old guy?”
Despite the age difference, the two players have developed a rapport that adds a new layer of entertainment for fans. Van Gerwen even mentioned Littler’s deep knowledge of Manchester United, pointing out, “If you ask him about Man United, he knows everything. That’s a generation gap.” This playful comment highlights the contrast in their life experiences and interests, yet darts bridges the gap between them, creating a unique mentor-student dynamic on the competitive stage.
Littler’s rapid ascent has breathed new life into the sport and introduced a new generation of fans to darts. His success at such a young age has already positioned him as a future icon. The fact that he has managed to match the likes of Van Gerwen, a seasoned champion, in this year’s Premier League is a testament to his skill and potential. Moreover, the victories at the Austria Open and Belgium Open underscore his ability to perform under pressure and win on big stages.
For Van Gerwen, interacting with Littler brings a fresh perspective. Known for his fierce competitiveness, Van Gerwen seems to find joy in seeing a young player like Littler rise through the ranks. The “kebab boy” nickname might just be a reflection of the admiration Van Gerwen holds for the youngster, admiring both his laid-back attitude off the stage and his fierce determination on it. This bond is unusual in such a competitive field, where rivalries often define relationships between top players. However, Van Gerwen’s openness to engage with Littler beyond the traditional competitive edge highlights the Dutchman’s respect for Littler’s journey and potential.
As Littler continues to grow in his career, it’s clear that his friendly rivalry with Van Gerwen will remain a talking point among fans and a defining feature of his early professional journey. The support from Van Gerwen, one of the sport’s giants, also signifies a passing of the torch, as the next generation of dart players, led by Littler, begins to make its mark.
In a sport that cherishes both skill and personality, the camaraderie and competition between Van Gerwen and Littler encapsulates what makes darts exciting. Fans will undoubtedly look forward to more thrilling matches between them, complete with the banter and mutual respect that have come to define their relationship. As for Littler, being dubbed “kebab boy” by a legend like Van Gerwen is just another reminder that he’s well on his way to becoming a celebrated figure in darts himself.