Recently, the darts world has been buzzing about the intense rivalry between Michael van Gerwen and young sensation Luke Littler, who made headlines when he became the youngest world champion just last month. The air is thick with anticipation as both players prepare to clash in the upcoming Premier League in Belfast.

Van Gerwen's Criticism

Michael van Gerwen, a three-time world champion, didn't hold back in addressing Littler's lack of punctuality. Arriving 45 minutes late for a media day, Littler's excuse of oversleeping after a morning nap raised eyebrows and drew sharp words from Van Gerwen:

"They need to stop treating him like a baby. He’s not a baby any more; he’s 18 years old now. It happens. He has to learn. You have to learn the hard way. It’s a professional sport, so you have to be responsible for your actions. Simple as that."

The controversy touches on a critical aspect of professional sports: accountability. Van Gerwen emphasized that while he understood that players are human and mistakes happen, the camaraderie of a team means waiting for one player affects many.

A Promising Future for Littler

Despite the age gap and criticism, Littler has showcased his remarkable talent and skill, overcoming Van Gerwen in both the World Championship final and the quarter-finals of the Dutch Masters shortly after. His performance reflects not just talent but an unwavering determination to succeed at the highest levels.

Upcoming Clash

With their rivalry reigniting at the Premier League this Thursday, fans are eagerly looking forward to the showdown. As the players step up to the oche in Belfast, it’s more than just a game—it's a battle for respect, responsibility, and the title of the best in darts.

Tune In!

Don’t miss out on the live action starting from 19:00 GMT on Thursday, exclusively on BBC Sport. Will Littler continue his streak against Van Gerwen, or will the seasoned champion reclaim his dominance? Only time will tell.