Luke Littler has acknowledged that he has yet to engage in a conversation with Gian van Veen to resolve their heated dispute. The clash between the two occurred during the ninth night of the Premier League in Manchester three weeks ago.
Following a contentious victory by Van Veen over the two-time world champion, the Dutch player accused Littler of displaying unsportsmanlike behavior towards the audience when he missed crucial darts. The tension between them has persisted, with Littler revealing after a victory on the twelfth night in Manchester that they still have not reconciled.
Littler stated, “No, we have not communicated, but I am not inclined to initiate a conversation with him. Perhaps he expects me to approach him, but that is not my style. Even in the practice room, others usually initiate conversations with me first. I am not one to engage in idle chatter.”
He further expressed that they can settle their differences on the dartboard and that their interactions backstage have been normal, indicating that both have focused on their game on stage. While acknowledging differing opinions between them, Littler emphasized that they have moved forward in their gameplay despite the lack of communication off-stage.
Regarding recent experiences with fans’ reactions, Littler mentioned that although he faced hostility in Liverpool after securing a victory, it was not as intense as the reception he received in Rotterdam earlier. He emphasized the need to remain focused on the game and acknowledged the challenges of playing under such circumstances.
Looking ahead, the Premier League is set to resume in Aberdeen, where Littler will face Josh Rock in the quarter-finals, while Van Veen is scheduled to compete against Jonny Clayton.
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