It’s been an incredible few years for the 18-year-old, but Luke Littler wants more. It’s so much more. The current world champion is on his way to becoming world number one. But how and when will he achieve that?
If Littler achieves his goal of becoming No. 1, it would be quite a statement considering he wasn’t even a PDC Tour card holder until January 2024.
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Highlights from the World Grand Prix final between Luke Littler and Luke Humphries
Not long after He defeated current number one Luke Humphries 6-1 in the World Grand Prix final.Littler said Humphries’ top spot was his main target, but before that a trip to Wigan for the World Youth Championships was important.
Some people thought his decision to play in the tournament showed arrogance, but neither criticism is warranted.
Littler was one of many players in the eligible age group (under 24s) to compete on the main circuit, including defending champion Gian van Veen.
at last, Littler lost to the brilliant Beau Greaves in the semifinals..
It’s been a whirlwind week for Littler, so much so that he decided to take the weekend off and not take part in the German Darts Championships in Hildesheim.
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Littler beat Michael van Gerwen to win his first World Darts Championship title.
Littler is now ready for the busiest period of his darts calendar, culminating in the defense of the World Championships at Alexandra Palace. There are only 50 days left until it all starts. It will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
The teenager from Warrington also announced a new management deal with Target Darts. So why has he decided to change and can he become world number one in Dortmund this weekend? Michael Bridge has the answer…
Why did Littler switch management?
Littler is a global phenomenon! He enjoyed much success through ZXF Sports Management, run by former manager Martin Foulds, and believes now is the right time for a change. Foulds has worked with Littler since signing as a 13-year-old in 2020.
They parted on good terms.
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Michael Bridge explains Littler’s new management team.
Why Target?
He has been with the company since he was 12 years old. That’s because Littler is the dart manufacturer’s first managed customer. The company provided equipment throughout his career, supporting him throughout his PDC development tours and trips to the WDF circuit.
Now they have announced the first senior contract of his career, but Littler will also advise and manage his family.
Product includes Littler approved 22g steel tip darts.
Luke Littler poses with the Phil Taylor Trophy alongside Garry Plummer, owner of Target Darts, and James Tattersall, Managing Director of Target Darts.
Garry Plummer, President of Target Darts, has been Littler’s longtime mentor and been with him throughout his incredible Ally Pally journey.
“We believe the best players in the world deserve the best darts in the world and we are honored that Luke has placed his trust in us and signed a multi-year deal with Target,” he said.
“We pride ourselves on our ability to find and develop the best young talent.
“Luke is now a shining example to all players in our Elite1 program and young people in general of what hard work and the right team can achieve with the right team by your side.
“We are excited to continue our great partnership and help Luke bring more titles to the country in the future.”
Does Target manage anyone else?
Littler joins the same stable of former world champions Phil Taylor, Rob Cross, Raymond van Barneveld and former World Match Play champion Nathan Aspinall, but the teenager is the first player to have his management fully taken over by Target.
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Littler announces new leadership at Target
What does darts player care include?
It’s very busy. First, diary management. For Littler, he was wanted everywhere. TV appearances, exhibitions, promotional and sponsorship events all have to fit into a tight PDC schedule.
PDC tournaments are held every week, including ProTour events, Euro Tours and majors.
What does this move mean for Littler’s commercial potential?
Littler’s profile was like nothing seen before in darts and played a major role in contributing to record viewership, ticket sales and merchandise revenue.
This may be a new deal in terms of representation, but Target has been with Littler since he was 12 and signed him then.
Six years later he has become one of the most famous figures not only in darts, but in sport!
Can I use a new dart?
Every darts player likes to make modifications from time to time. Peter Wright is famous for switching darts several times during a match. The weight may change little, but the design may. This deal is a new era for Littler, so we should expect some brand updates in the coming months.
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Check out some of the most memorable moments from the World Darts Championship, including Littler’s record-breaking set, barrioke and two nine-darters!
What’s left for him this year?
rich! European Championships, Grand Slam of Darts, Players Championship finals and of course the World Championships.
Sky Sports will once again be home to the World Cup of Darts, World Match Play, World Grand Prix, Grand Slam of Darts and more! Stream the best sports including darts with NOW
