DARTS ACE WARNS LITTLER COULD RETIRE IN FIVE YEARS
06/05/2025 By Aaron Nijjar
By Aaron Nijjar
DR LINDA DUFFY has called on the Professional Darts Corporation to do more to protect players’ mental health.
Former world No. 1 Duffy’s warning comes after Luke Humphries spoke about the pressure of the relentless darts calendar and its impact on his wellbeing.
But seven-time major winner Humphries comments were met with criticism on social media.
Chartered psychologist Duffy has defended ‘Cool Hand’ and advised players to steer clear from social media.
She told Tungsten Tales: “There needs to be far more attention paid to psychological support.
“Burnout is a clear sign of stress and anxiety.
“Luke Humphries recently showed great courage by speaking publicly about his own experiences.
“His openness could encourage other players to seek help as well.
“Some people don’t understand why top players like Luke say they’re struggling with motivation, but I completely get it.
“The pressure on elite athletes can simply become overwhelming. Darts players are expected to perform at their very best every single time, but that’s just not realistic.
“The calendar is so packed that choices have to be made.
“I would advise players not to use social media.
“And if they do, then only for light, superficial things — certainly not to express their feelings — because unfortunately, many people are only looking for ways to drag you down even further.”
Duffy also raised concerns about 18-year-old world champion Luke Littler and believes it is important he has a supportive management team who balance his schedule.
She added: “It’s absolutely crucial that he receives proper support. Otherwise, there’s a risk he’ll walk away from the game within five years because he’s completely burned out.
“Fortunately, he has a good manager who understands the importance of giving him time to rest. I see that as a very positive development.”
Ex Pro Duffy has noticed the rise of several young talents on the oche such as Littler, Josh Rock, and Gian van Veen, all of whom are under the age of 24.
She revealed: “Years ago players were older, had more life experience and were more able to cope with the pressures.
“They maybe had some more stability behind them you know, already had their family, had a house, that type of thing.”
Image by Taylor Lanning.
