Gian van Veen criticises Luke Littler after heated Premier League Darts clash
Gian van Veen has launched a scathing attack on Luke Littler following their fiery Premier League Darts quarter-final encounter in Manchester this evening, reports BritPanorama.
The Dutch player had established a commanding 4-1 advantage before Littler fought back to level the contest at 5-5. Tensions flared when both competitors were poised on a finishing double. Van Veen accused the teenage sensation of celebrating when he narrowly missed double 15 on the inside.
The Dutchman also criticised Littler, who performed a mocking, crying gesture during the heated exchange. Van Veen ultimately secured victory after Littler squandered three attempts at a double to close out the match.
Speaking to Dutch broadcaster Viaplay, Van Veen detailed the confrontation: “I’m on 90 and miss double 15 on the inside, and then I see him cheering towards the crowd. I don’t think that’s normal. And then he makes that crying gesture too…He is a great darts player, but today he shows that he is not a good loser.”
He added: “Cheering over an opponent’s miss really annoys me. So that’s why I gave him an angry look. That he then misses three darts at a double, that’s his problem.” The triumph held particular significance for Van Veen, who was competing in his first Premier League fixture since undergoing surgery to have kidney stones removed.
He reflected, “The last few weeks have been very tough. And to beat Luke Littler now feels really good. The way it happened, that doesn’t really matter to me.”
Sky Sports pundit Wayne Mardle offered his analysis of the flashpoint, stating: “I know exactly what happened. Gian van Veen went inside on D15 and Luke was happy about that so kind of gave it the Simon Whitlock ‘well done.’ You shouldn’t do that. You have got to say that Gian handled it better.”
Supporters took to social media to condemn Littler’s behaviour during the clash. One fan wrote: “Of all people, he tries picking out Gian van Veen, the most innocent and respectful man on tour, what an absolute t****r Luke Littler is.” Criticism poured in, with viewers branding Littler’s actions “pathetic” and urging him to “get a grip.”
The incident underscored the fine line between competitive spirit and sportsmanship, reminding fans that in darts, as in life, emotions can run high even when the darts occasionally miss their mark.
