World darts number one Luke Littler has publicly defended the involvement of influencers in the sport, offering support to popular streamer Angry Ginge. This comes just days after veteran player Gary Anderson launched a scathing rant, branding such figures "a load of rubbish" and criticising their impact on professional darts.
Littler's Support for Influencer Participation
Speaking at the launch event for the 2026 Premier League Darts tournament in Newcastle, the 19-year-old phenom addressed Anderson's comments directly. Littler emphasised that influencers are simply trying to engage with the sport and build their own followings, often with sponsor support. "They're just trying aren't they," Littler stated. "They're trying to throw darts, trying to create a following and obviously most of them have got a few sponsors."
Angry Ginge's Professional Aspirations
The discussion specifically focused on Morgan Burtwistle, better known as Angry Ginge, who has appeared as a special guest at professional darts events. Burtwistle has recently expressed interest in attending the PDC Qualifying School next year, with the potential to earn a coveted tour card if successful.
Littler, who counts the streamer as a close friend and was supported by him during the World Championships at Alexandra Palace, offered measured optimism about Burtwistle's prospects. "I didn't go through Q-school, so I don't know what it's like to play in there, but I see some of the results every year when people are losing to 105 averages," Littler explained.
"For Ginge himself, if he gets the luck of the draw, he could win a few games. But if he wants to do a few hours a day constantly, he'd obviously get better himself. We'll see him at Q-school one day," the darts star added, highlighting the importance of dedicated practice.
Littler's Record-Breaking Momentum
This defence comes at a significant moment in Littler's career. Fresh from winning the Masters last week, he has become the joint-third most successful player in the PDC era. The victory marked his 11th major PDC title, continuing his remarkable ascent in the sport since bursting onto the scene.
Premier League Darts Campaign Ahead
Littler's immediate focus now shifts to the Premier League Darts tournament, which begins in Newcastle and runs through to Finals Night on 28th May. With matches scheduled every Thursday from 5th February, the world number one enters as favourite to reclaim the title he last won in 2024, despite Luke Humphries being the defending champion.
The debate around influencers in darts reflects broader discussions about how traditional sports engage with digital content creators and new media personalities. As the sport continues to grow its audience through various platforms, figures like Littler appear more welcoming of crossover participation than some established veterans.
