Luke Littler hit with ‘unfair’ comment by darts rival after winning return at Bahrain Masters

The youngster won the hearts of the nation despite losing the final

Michael van Gerwen claims the media furore around Luke Littler at the World Darts Championship was ‘unfair’ on Luke Humphries.

The 16-year-old grabbed most of the headlines at Alexandra Palace despite Humphries winning the Sid Waddell Trophy for the first time.

Littler has become a household name following his record-breaking performance at his debut tournament.

He became the youngest player to ever win a match in the competition in the first round.

Michael van Gerwen says the media attention on Luke Littler was unfair on Luke Humphries

But he upset all the odds by brushing aside the likes of former champions Raymond van Barneveld and Rob Cross on his way to the final.

Littler led 4-2 and missed a double to stretch his lead to three sets.

Humphries made him pay and won five sets on the bounce to claim his maiden title with a 7-4 win.

The 28-year-old finished 2023 in sensational form, having won the World Grand Prix, Grand Slam of Darts and Players Championship in quick succession.

He started 2024 in perfect fashion against Littler, having only just been confirmed as the new world No 1.

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And Van Gerwen believes Humphries should have got more attention from his victory.

The Dutchman told talkSPORT: “He [Littler] has to deal with it [media attention] but people forget what kind of tournament Luke Humphries had – it’s a little bit unfair to the guy.

“I know Luke Littler had a fantastic tournament but it has taken away the glory of Luke Humphries a little bit, I think.

“Yeah 100 per cent [Humphries was the favourite]. Everything’s been going his way, he’s played some fantastic darts, he showed his class as well.

“I think it was a great final for everyone to watch, I think it was a great tournament.