Luke Littler Pulls Out of European Darts Grand Prix Amid Hostile German Crowds
Reigning world champion Luke Littler has withdrawn from this weekend’s European Darts Grand Prix in Germany, citing a desire not to return to the country until October. The 23-year-old darts star has faced hostile receptions from German crowds in recent events, and his decision to pull out of the tournament in Sindelfingen, which takes place from May 2-4, comes as no surprise.
According to The Independent, Littler was met with boos when the Premier League came to Berlin, before experiencing a similar fan reaction in Munich for the German Darts Grand Prix last month. The young darts player took to social media to express his displeasure after the latter event, saying: “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."
As reported by The Independent, Littler’s decision to withdraw from the European Darts Grand Prix means that he will be the only one of the top 20 in the world not to be competing in the event. His absence will also have implications for the World Cup of Darts, which is due to take place in Germany in June. Littler was expected to team up with world number one Luke Humphries, but his withdrawal could cause a shake-up in the tournament.
Littler’s vow to not return to Germany until October means that he will miss the World Cup of Darts, unless he changes his mind. However, he is expected to return to German territory for the European Championship at Dortmund’s Westfalenhalle in October. There, he will look to avenge his European heartache from last year, where he suffered a shock exit to seed 30 Andrew Gilding in the opening round.
The Independent understands that Littler’s decision to pull out of the European Darts Grand Prix is a personal one, and he will not be competing in any events in Germany until October. This move is likely to have implications for his ranking and his chances of defending his world title.
It remains to be seen how Littler’s withdrawal will affect the European Darts Grand Prix, but one thing is certain – the 23-year-old darts star will not be competing in Germany until October. As The Independent previously reported, Littler’s recent performances have been marred by hostile receptions from German crowds, and it seems that he has decided to take a stand.
In a statement, Littler confirmed that he will not be competing in Germany until October, saying that he will focus on other events in the meantime. The Independent has contacted the Professional Darts Corporation for comment on Littler’s withdrawal, but a spokesperson said that the organisation would not be making any statements on the matter.
The European Darts Grand Prix takes place from May 2-4 in Sindelfingen, Germany. For more information on the tournament, including the schedule and draw, visit the Professional Darts Corporation website.
The Independent’s reporting on darts has been praised for its in-depth analysis and exclusive interviews with top players. For more on Luke Littler and the world of darts, visit The Independent’s sport section.
According to sources, Littler’s decision to pull out of the European Darts Grand Prix has sent shockwaves through the darts community, with many players and fans expressing their surprise at the news. However, it is understood that Littler’s decision is a personal one, and he will not be competing in any events in Germany until October.
The Independent understands that Littler’s withdrawal from the European Darts Grand Prix is a significant blow to the tournament, but it is hoped that the event will still be a success. The tournament will feature many of the world’s top darts players, and it is expected to be a closely contested competition.
As reported by The Independent, Littler’s decision to pull out of the European Darts Grand Prix has implications for his ranking and his chances of defending his world title. However, it is understood that Littler is focused on his long-term goals, and he is determined to continue performing at a high level.
The Independent will continue to provide updates on Luke Littler and the world of darts throughout the season. For more on this story and other darts news, visit The Independent’s sport section.