Luke Littler Hails Michael van Gerwen: ‘MvG Is Back – He’s the Second Greatest of All Time’

Manchester recently witnessed a landmark moment for darts as Target Darts launched a pop-up store in the heart of the city, offering fans a first-hand look at the brand’s latest innovations. Among the standout appearances was that of reigning World Champion Luke Littler, who took time to speak candidly with Online Darts about everything from equipment and form to rivals and the growing weight of expectation.

For Littler, the pop-up event was more than a promotional stop—it was a celebration of his close partnership with Target. “It’s brilliant, the work that Target put into us players,” said the teenager. “We just do our job, but behind the scenes, they’re getting every detail right—pixels, length, points, K-Flex—everything. And this is the result. Most of the Target players are here, and it’s been a great day.”

Technology’s Rapid Rise in Darts

Littler highlighted how dramatically darts technology has evolved, praising the precision and creativity behind modern equipment. “What Target can do these days is just incredible. Some of the darts on display—I don’t even know what they’re called—they’re mental,” he laughed. “Even Barney’s and Taylor’s new darts—they can make it all.”

Despite experimenting with various models, Littler remains loyal to his trusted Gen 1 darts, famously used during his World Championship, Premier League, and Matchplay triumphs.

“I always want to try new things—especially the gold darts at the Worlds, they looked great—but I couldn’t get my head around them. Maybe it’s the colour, but the black darts just feel right.”

Even minor changes, like switching from silver to black points, have made a noticeable difference in his setup—at least in his mind.

“As a dart player, you just know what’s right. The black point feels better, maybe heavier. It’s probably just psychological, but it works for me.”

Rivals and Return to Form: “MVG is Back”

Littler is enjoying another strong season, even if every tournament hasn’t delivered silverware. His form remains solid, and he sees signs that Michael van Gerwen is returning to his best.

“I’m playing really well at the minute. Amsterdam didn’t go my way, but Michael averaged 101, 102 all tournament. Hopefully he’s back. Like he said—he’s never really gone, just been struggling.”

While his rivalry with Luke Humphries is marked by mutual respect, matches against Van Gerwen or Gerwyn Price bring extra fire.

“Me and Luke don’t really celebrate big shots. But with Michael—if I see him do it, I think, ‘Okay Mike, I’ll give some back.’ Same with Gezzy. If I hit a big checkout, I’ll show it.”

Asked whether beating MVG carries extra significance, Littler didn’t hesitate. “Definitely. Just because of how much he’s won. Phil’s not around now, so Michael is the second-greatest. Everyone wants to beat him—just like they want to beat me and Luke. Hopefully we have more great battles.”

The Weight of a World Champion

With less than 100 days to go until the 2025 World Championship, Littler admits the thought of defending his title is never far away.

“It’s always in the back of my mind. But I’ve got to focus on the Grand Prix, the Grand Slam, the Players Championships. The Worlds will come, and I can’t wait—but there’s plenty to play before then.” Winning back-to-back world titles would place Littler in elite company.

“Only three players have done it. I love breaking records and putting my name on those honour rolls. Hopefully I can do it again.” Yet life as a world champion comes with a growing burden.

“Since my first Worlds, there’s been a target on my back. Now it’s even bigger. Everyone raises their game against me, so I’ve always got to be on mine.”

No Time to Reflect

Despite his meteoric rise, Littler admits he hasn’t had the chance to fully process his achievements. “I’ve not sat down and gone, ‘I’ve done this, I’ve done that.’ It’s been nonstop—compete, go home, then back on a flight for the Europeans or World Series. Even after the Worlds, I had maybe ten days off, then it was straight into the World Series.”

And holidays? Not this year. “No time. Last year I managed a break, but this year’s been full-on. That’s what comes with winning the Worlds—more commitments, more people to talk to. But in 2026, I’ll definitely take some holidays. I’ll go away with my girlfriend and family—without even thinking about darts.”