MARDLE HAILS LITTLER CHARACTER AFTER BATTLING DOUBTS
29/05/2026 By Aaron Nijjar
WAYNE MARDLE says Luke Littler proved his strength by overcoming “doubts” during a turbulent Premier League campaign.
The teenage sensation broke down in tears after beating Luke Humphries 11-10 to win his second Premier League title at the O2 Arena.
The Nuke later admitted he had considered walking away from darts after a difficult spell earlier in the season.
Littler had been constantly booed and jeered by the crowd for weeks on end in the major tournament following his clash with Gian van Veen in Manchester on Night Nine.
Former pro Mardle believes the Warrington ace showed real character by battling through the emotional pressure.
He said: “No one is that strong they don’t have doubts. He had doubts but came back.
“Owning up to that is a step forward for him. I have nothing but admiration for this teenager.
“We know how strong Littler is mentally but when you are feeling like you’re public enemy number one, you can feel like you don’t want to turn up.
“But he did turn up and this is the by-product of turning up.
“There is more that goes on in a Premier League than just turning up week after week. It is a rollercoaster for every player, whether you are winning games or struggling.
“This is the culmination of all that effort and it came out for Littler. He was inconsolable.”
Mardle also praised Littler’s family support network during his rise to the top of the sport.
He added: “I love the family support he has. His mum and dad travel everywhere, as does Faith. That’s so important.
“You are never on your own. I was fortunate that I never played this sport on my own as when you do it is a lonely place. I have seen people want to walk away.
“But Luke has one of the best support systems there is in darts. It is a family affair and he has a great team behind him.”
World No.2 Humphries insisted that darts is an emotional game, as he showed class by consoling Littler on stage in a touching moment.
He said: “You are playing in big finals and it shows how much it means to us as players.
“You are on the road for 16 or 17 weeks and I don’t get the chance to take my family with me. You want that trophy in your hands.
“It was a great final, one of the best the Premier League has seen. I am proud that I made it a tough game.”
