Luke Littler Withdraws from European Darts Grand Prix Amidst Scheduling and Emotional Reasons
Reigning world champion Luke Littler has officially withdrawn from the Elten Safety Shoes European Darts Grand Prix in Germany, according to Sky Sports Darts. The news does not come as a shock given the hostile reception Littler has received from German crowds in recent weeks.
Background of the Withdrawal
During the Premier League night in Berlin, Littler was greeted with hostility, and at the German Darts Grand Prix in Munich, he was once again booed. In light of these events, Littler stated on social media, "Shouldn’t have been in Munich but had to play anyway. Next one in Germany for me is Dortmund and I am glad to say that." This suggests that Littler had vowed not to return to Germany until October.
Reaction from Sky Sports Darts’ Stuart Pyke
Sky Sports Darts’ Stuart Pyke confirmed on Thursday that Littler will still play at the World Cup of Darts in Frankfurt next month, alongside Luke Humphries. Pyke tweeted on X: "Big story from the ‘arrers… Luke Littler definitely playing the World Cup of Darts for England with Luke Humphries in Frankfurt next month." The World Cup runs from June 12-15.
Pyke’s Insights on Littler’s Withdrawal
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Pyke said: "He is going to play [at the World Cup]. He’s definitely going to play with Luke Humphries and he will play on the Euro Tour. The reason he pulled out of the event this week is scheduling. Nothing more, nothing less. He got a bit emotional. He came out and said something but didn’t mean it. He will be playing in Germany at the World Cup."
Tournament Draw and Schedule
Littler’s withdrawal from European Tour Event 6 also means that he is the only one of the world’s top 20 players not taking part. The draw and schedule for this weekend’s event have been confirmed, with Gary Anderson beginning his defence against either Gian van Veen or Nathan Rafferty.
Notable Matches and Players
Former champions Humphries, Michael van Gerwen, Rob Cross, and Peter Wright will also take centre stage in Sindelfingen, as they kick off their title challenges on Saturday. The tournament will feature 16 matches across two sessions on Friday, before the 16 PDC Order of Merit Qualifiers enter the tournament in Saturday’s second round.
Schedule of Play
The schedule of play is as follows:
- Friday, May 2: First Round
- Afternoon Session (12pm BST)
- Evening Session (6pm BST)
- Saturday, May 3: Second Round
- Afternoon Session (12pm BST)
- Evening Session (6pm BST)
- Sunday, May 4: Third Round, Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals, and Final
Conclusion
In conclusion, Luke Littler’s withdrawal from the European Darts Grand Prix has come amidst scheduling and emotional reasons. While he will not participate in this event, he will still play at the World Cup of Darts in Frankfurt next month. The tournament draw and schedule have been confirmed, with several notable matches and players set to take centre stage. Sky Sports Darts will provide exclusive coverage of the event.
