The darts world is abuzz over Luke Littler, a 16-year-old prodigy on the verge of profitable the World Dart Championship. The Englishman burst onto the scene on this match, going from relative unknown to the game’s Bobby Fischer (minus the racism and genius although I’m undecided these two might be true directly).
On Wednesday, he faces veteran Luke Humphries for the title, and I’m sorry to be a Debbie Downer, however what are the possibilities that Littler is, actually, 16? Did you see his image? He’s balding, and has the physique of somebody who’s been frequenting pubs for no less than twenty years.
Additionally, his identify is Luke Littler. That’s some Little John/Robin Hood stuff, and will’ve prompted somebody to ask for his delivery certificates. I’m about to go tear up Peewee Soccer as a result of apparently admission is as simple as altering my final identify to a synonym of tiny. Sean Smallhands? Sean Weelad? Sir Edward Miniscule?
Darts will not be a sport you’d suppose would draw the curiosity of Gen Z, or individuals who grew up on Roblox. I do know the UK is completely different, they usually obsess over bar video games to a harmful diploma, however both Littler is on a never-before-seen heater, or was actually born and raised in a pub. (Once more, that’s not out of the realm of chance for the English; I merely would really like verification.)
Have you ever seen a baby throw something with accuracy earlier than the age of 12? So, what? Littler used coaching darts till a progress spurt turned him into Phil Taylor? I’m not shopping for it, nor do you have to. And even settle for this as a severe accusation.
This can be a Danny Almonte scenario, and I’ve by no means been extra sure of something in my life. (No less than I hope I’m not criticizing a minor. Nevertheless, I’ve been embarrassingly incorrect earlier than, and hopefully not one of the potential prize cash goes towards a future libel go well with.)
Littler’s “mum” even shared an image of him on Christmas morning as if the weblog I work for is as inclined to being catfished as Manti Te’o. Luke has the LeBron James hairline for Christsake. Following his semifinal win over (I’m positive a despondent) Rob Cross, Littler went full first person.
“I’ve bought no phrases. I can’t even think about lifting that trophy but although. I’ve simply bought to remain targeted, chill out and be Luke Littler.”
What sort of 16-year-old says that? I’ll let you know what variety. The 30-year-old variety.
Anyway, better of luck, Luke — if that’s your actual identify.
