JAMES BACKS VAN VEEN TO BECOME MULTIPLE WORLD CHAMP
19/02/2026 By Aaron Nijjar
POLLY JAMES reckons Gian van Veen has everything it takes to “EASILY” become a multiple world champion.
The popular broadcaster lifted the lid on the Dutch star’s meticulous preparation and revealed she has to get to venues a staggering SIX hours early to interview him.
In contrast, James says Luke Littler has a far more laid-back approach, arriving just a couple of hours before he is due on stage.
World No. 3 Van Veen, however, is already hard at work long before most players have even set off for the venue.
She told the Douple Tops podcast: “He is an extremely intelligent guy, so well measured as well.
“Littler will turn up to a tournament maybe about two hours before a game he’s due on.
“Me being there for Sky or whoever, we’re waiting to do that pre-match interview, waiting for his arrival and things.
“He’ll go in, maybe have an hour chucking on the board, have a pizza, whatever.
“Gian, whenever he’s playing first at a tournament, I know I have to get there at least six hours before because he is always there so early.
“They all have these routines, but I think that says a lot about Gian and about how he looks at the game and how he prepares.
“He’s an extremely likable guy and obviously has got a good head on his shoulders. And yeah, love him.
“I can see him being a multiple world champion easily.”
‘The Giant’ claimed his first major title at last year’s European Championship at just 23 years old.
Van Veen is also making his Premier League debut this season and currently sits fifth in the table after reaching the final on Night One in Newcastle.
Image by Taylor Lanning.
