Gian van Veen has admitted his next meeting with Luke Littler may not be 'very friendly' following a heated exchange during their Premier League Darts quarter-final in Manchester on Thursday. The Dutchman defeated the world number one in a last-leg decider at the AO Arena, avenging his World Championship final loss.
Van Veen missed a match dart, prompting Littler to celebrate in front of the crowd. The 19-year-old then gestured at his opponent on his return to the oche before Van Veen sealed a 6-5 victory. Littler responded with a cry baby action and a brief handshake as he left the stage.
After his win, Van Veen criticised Littler, calling him a 'bad loser' and describing his conduct as 'out of order'. Later that evening, Littler shared a screenshot of Van Veen's comments on his Instagram Stories with three laughing emojis.
Speaking to Viaplay, Van Veen said: 'No, we haven't spoken. He hasn't approached me either. I saw his reaction on social media. He thought it was funny. Well, I don't think things will be very friendly between us any time soon.' He added that he cares little about what Littler thinks of him.
The pair will not face each other in the European Tour event in Munich this weekend, as Littler has not entered. Van Veen, currently ranked third in the world, returns to action on Sunday in the second round against either William O'Connor or Sebastian Bialecki.
