Luke Littler has disclosed that he will not be attending the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards next week, despite being nominated for the top accolade. Instead, he has backed Lando Norris to take home the coveted prize.
At just 18 years old, known as ‘The Nuke,’ Littler is in the running for the award alongside five others, including Norris, Rory McIlroy, Chloe Kelly, Hannah Hampton, and Ellie Kildunne. Although he was a nominee last year as well, he lost to Olympic gold medalist Keely Hodgkinson.
Even though Littler is once again a contender after an outstanding year, he has expressed that his main focus will be on his upcoming second-round match with either Mario Vandenbogaerde or David Davies, scheduled 48 hours after the awards ceremony on December 18.
When asked about the ceremony, Littler stated, “No. I’m not going. I’m not going to it. I think they know. I think obviously the people in the top three on the betting odds will obviously go there and I think Lando will win.”
He added, “I think I’ve only missed out on four majors this year. So if I’d won them, do I win it? Who knows – but good luck to whoever’s going to win it.”
In the coming days, Littler plans to relax at home but will make time to watch Manchester United’s match against Bournemouth on Monday evening.
A devoted Red Devils supporter, Littler attended the sold-out away game at Molineux where his team triumphed 4-1 against Wolves, causing a stir on social media.
Responding to queries about how he obtained tickets for the match, Littler explained, “I mean, everyone just jumps on everything. They don’t know anything. I put something out there (on social media) to thank Adidas for the tickets because no one knows. And then when I put it on, they’re like, ‘Oh, you’re just trying to cover it up.’ But the tickets were off Adidas.”
He continued, “From what I heard, as kit manufacturers Adidas give a certain amount of tickets out a year, home and away, to whoever they want. So they chose me, gave me three tickets for Wolves away.”
After securing a 3-0 victory over Darius Labanauskas at Ally Pally, Littler discussed his performance, stating, “It definitely wasn’t easy and I’m happy with the win. There were a few nerves but once you win a leg and win a set, it settles you down. That first set was crucial against the darts.”
He emphasized the significance of advancing past the first round, acknowledging the tough competition regardless of the opponent.
Looking ahead to the World Darts Championship, where he aims to defend his title, Littler is featured in a special edition preview alongside rival Luke Humphries. The preview includes insights from leading contenders, interviews with darts personalities, and a variety of engaging content.