Luke Littler's on-stage row with Gian van Veen during the Premier League event in Manchester has drawn widespread reaction. The teenage darts sensation lost to Van Veen in the quarter-finals on April 2, sparking a heated exchange after Van Veen missed a match dart. Littler threw his arms up and made a 'crybaby' gesture, later sharing Van Veen's angry comments on Instagram with laughing emojis and posting a roll of honour.
Littler claimed that his fist pump, which appeared to provoke Van Veen, was actually aimed at his girlfriend Faith Millar and her father. He said: 'When he come inside the double 15, I looked up, had a drink of my water and then I done a little fist bump towards Faith and her dad.' He added that Van Veen had no need to stare at him, calling the suggestion he was celebrating Van Veen's miss 'a load of nonsense'.
Former BDO world champion Mark Webster defended Van Veen, telling Paddy Power: 'I was a bit flabbergasted by it all. I don't see what the problem was for Luke, and I think Gian conducted himself really well.' Darts referee Huw Ware said he hadn't seen the incident and didn't think it was anything to get involved with, noting that both players shook hands professionally.
Van Veen said he hasn't spoken to Littler since the spat, telling Viaplay: '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 anytime soon.' However, world No. 2 Luke Humphries predicted the feud will soon be forgotten, saying: 'It's hot news right now, but in two weeks it'll all be forgotten.'
