Darts sensation Luke Littler has once again been criticised for his on-stage demeanour, with German rival Ricardo Pietreczko branding the teenager 'arrogant' in a fresh assessment of their tense relationship.
The Spark of a Darts Rivalry
The friction between the pair first ignited during the semi-final of the 2024 Belgian Darts Open. Pietreczko took issue with Littler's unconventional route to finish a 147 checkout, leading to a frosty post-match handshake. The German later took to social media, stating he hoped Littler's perceived arrogance would 'cost him in the future'.
Their latest encounter came at the 2025 Players Championship Finals in Minehead, where Littler secured a 10-6 victory. However, the match was tougher than expected, with the 18-year-old dropping several sets. After the win, a clearly irked Littler revealed that Pietreczko had claimed he was surprised to win five legs, expecting only one.
Pietreczko's Attempt to Clarify
Ahead of the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship, Pietreczko attempted to set the record straight, suggesting the media had amplified their feud. "We were relaxed with each other and had fun backstage," he stated in a press conference.
Regarding the Minehead incident, he clarified his comments were meant in jest: "I said, ‘I’m glad I survived the two sessions. I was just hoping to get one leg—now I’m standing here with five.’ It was meant as a joke... And Luke apparently took it differently."
Honest Assessment Reignites Tensions
Despite wanting to calm tensions, the 31-year-old German was brutally honest in his final analysis of the world number one. "As far as Luke’s demeanour is concerned, I still think he comes across as a bit arrogant," Pietreczko admitted. "But the way he plays, he can get away with it sometimes."
This latest barb comes as Littler prepares to defend his world title at Alexandra Palace. His form has been slightly inconsistent, having recently lost to Michael van Gerwen in the final of the International Darts Cup.
Van Gerwen himself issued a warning to Littler and fellow favourite Luke Humphries, noting the unique pressure of the World Championship. "It is a different type of pressure, and it’s always nice to chase someone. It’s easier than being hunted," the former champion remarked.
The tournament draw has set Littler against Darius Labanauskas in his opening match. Luke Humphries faces Ted Evetts, while Michael van Gerwen takes on Mitsuhiko Tatsunami in what promises to be a highly competitive championship, with personal rivalries adding an extra layer of intrigue.
