Littler makes big change before World Grand Prix opener
Luke Littler has sensationally split with the manager who guided him into the professional ranks and to the 2025 world darts title.
The Nuke has announced on Instagram that he will no longer be part of the ZXF Management stable run by Martin Foulds, which he joined in 2020.
Foulds – who has been managing director of Prestige Building Supplies Ltd since April 2012 – nurtured the 18-year-old’s career as he rose from the junior ranks to the top of the sport.
According to Littler’s social media post, it was a mutual decision after five years together as he wanted to take “the next step” in his pursuit of more trophies and records.
On the eve of the World Grand Prix in Leicester, Littler said: “I want to say a massive thank you to ZXF Management, and especially Martin, for everything they’ve done for me so far in my career.
“We’ve had some amazing times together over the last five years.
“And I’ll always be grateful for the advice and support that helped me to get to this point.
“As my career moves forward and the schedule gets busier, we’ve agreed it’s the right time for me to take the next step with new representation.
“Martin has been brilliant for me and I wish him and everyone at ZXF the very best.
“Excited for what’s ahead.”
Cool Hand reacts
2023 World Grand Prix champion Luke Humphries cruised past Nathan Aspinall with a 2-0 victory in his opening match of the tournament.
Speaking after the match, he said: “It was a big game tonight. Nathan is a fantastic player, but he let me in a couple of times, and that 156 was massive for myself.
“My starting doubles were good and they usually are here.
“My scoring wasn’t as strong, but hopefully I can come back on Wednesday and be better.”
Mardle’s hilarious line goes viral
Wayne Mardle has gone viral for a hilarious line at the World Grand Prix.
The much-loved Sky Sports commentator has built a reputation for his energetic style on the mic.
Mardle, 52, adds excitement to the action at the oche and at the World Grand Prix he endeared himself to viewers at home once again.
During Luke Humphries‘ win over Nathan Aspinall, Mardle got carried away as The Asp tried to win the fourth leg.
Aspinall had 12 left to win the leg, but missed his first two darts at double six with both landing towards the bottom of the double.
Mardle then barked in commentary: “You’ve got to move. Gotta go right pal! Go right! Keep going!”
Aspinall first stepped to the right before moving left, much to the dismay of Mardle.
He responded saying: “No! Wrong way, wrong way!”
Co-commentator Mark Webster then asked: “You don’t think he’s going to hit this do you?”
Mardle responded: “No I do not,” just as Aspinall’s third dart flew into its intended target of double six.
Dutch Courage
Dutch duo Michael van Gerwen and Dirk van Duijvenbode will go head-to-head in a huge first round clash this evening.
MVG is a six-time World Grand Prix champion and he will be among the favourites to win the huge Leicester event.
The Green Machine will fancy his chances after winning 11 of the 14 meetings between the pair.
Luk-out!
Luke Littler gets his World Grand Prix campaign underway against Gian van Veen this evening.
The teenage sensation has lost his last THREE meetings with the Dutchman and Littler struggled with the double start format last year.
Tonight’s round one clash is certainly the standout tie to look forward to.
World Grand Prix Darts fixtures
Here are the matches we have to look forward to this evening in the bottom-half of the draw with the action kicking off at 6pm (GMT):
Damon Heta vs Luke Woodhouse
Ross Smith vs Daryl Gurney
Jonny Clayton vs Andrew Gilding
Gerwyn Price vs Ryan Searle
Luke Littler vs Gian van Veen
Michael van Gerwen vs Dirk van Duijvenbode
Peter Wright vs Mike De Decker
Josh Rock vs Ryan Joyce
