Darts supremo Barry Hearn has issued urgent financial advice to teenage sensation Luke Littler ahead of his World Championship campaign at Alexandra Palace.
The 17-year-old phenom, who has taken the sport by storm in 2024, received private guidance from Hearn just days before the tournament’s start.
The conversation focused on managing newfound wealth and avoiding the pitfalls of sudden fame, as Littler prepares for his second round match against either Ryan Meikle or Fallon Sherrock on December 21.
In direct talks with Littler, Hearn emphasised the importance of financial prudence at this crucial stage of the young star’s career.
Luke Littler is expected to earn millions from darts
PA
“Listen, you’re going to find you’ve got a lot of friends now, son. You’re 17 years old – don’t listen to anybody. Give yourself a chance. Just put the money in the bank and forget about it,” Hearn told the Daily Express.
The veteran promoter added: “It’s the best advice I could ever give anyone. We’ve got plenty of time to spend money, not necessarily plenty of time to earn money.
“You don’t know what’s around the corner. So cash is king.”
The advice comes as Littler himself has recently spoken about encountering fake friends on the fringes of his fresh fame.
Littler’s extraordinary rise in 2024 has included securing his maiden Premier League title and reaching multiple major finals.
Darts chief Barry Hearn wants Luke Littler to be careful with his money
PA
The teenage star has demonstrated his exceptional talent by hitting four nine-dart finishes and has established an enthralling rivalry with world number one Luke Humphries.
His remarkable achievements have earned him a place on the shortlist for BBC Sports Personality of the Year.
Most recently, Littler reached the Players Championship Finals in Minehead, where he finished runner-up to Humphries last month.
His success has brought substantial PDC prize money and lucrative marketing opportunities, establishing him as a wealthy young competitor in the sport.
The teenage sensation’s immediate focus now turns to the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace, where he aims to build on his remarkable year.
Littler will enter the competition in the second round as he’s one of the top seeds who receives a bye from the first.
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After reaching the World Championship final in January 2024, where he was defeated by Humphries, Littler will be determined to go one step further this time at Ally Pally.
Despite Humphries being the defending champion and top seed, Littler is seen as the favourite to lift the coveted trophy.
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