Luke Littler opens up on shock split after World Grand Prix victory: 'No one knows what's been going on'

Ben McCaffrey

By Ben McCaffrey


Published: 08/10/2025

- 08:00

The world No2 beat Gian van Veen in remarkable fashion to record his first-ever World Grand Prix victory on Tuesday evening

Luke Littler has opened up after his shock split from management after he pulled off a spectacular victory at the World Grand Prix last night.

The world No2 beat Gian van Veen despite the Dutchman recording the highest average in the tournament's history, 106.47.


The 18-year-old sensation triumphed 2-0 in Leicester, finally securing his first-ever win at the prestigious double-start event.

The win came just a day after Littler revealed he'd parted ways with his manager of five years, Martin Foulds, choosing to manage his own career with family support.

\u200bLuke Littler

Luke Littler celebrated his 2-0 victory emphatically after a stunning performance

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Littler released a statement on Monday announcing the end of his partnership with ZXF Management.

"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," Littler said in his statement.

"We've had some amazing times together over the last five years."

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\u200bGian van Veen

Gian van Veen was left with his hands in the air after both players put on a wonderful performance

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He explained that with his increasingly busy schedule, they'd agreed it was time for him to take the next step.

Despite initially suggesting he'd find new representation, Littler revealed on Tuesday evening that he's chosen to go it alone.

"I'm on my own. Just as myself, I think it's better," he explained.

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"Obviously, I've got my family to support me and obviously Martin had done his job, but I think it was the right time.

"No one knows what’s been going on behind the scenes. And I won’t be saying anything, but it was just the right time."

The teenager will handle his own bookings for flights and hotels, with guidance from Target Darts owner Garry Plummer.

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Luke Littler

Afte the match, Luke Littler opened up on his shock split from management, revealing plans to go solo instead

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On the night, the match was nothing short of brilliant, with both players pushing each other to extraordinary heights.

Littler averaged 105.58 across eight legs, sticking to his trusted double-top and double-10 combinations.

He lit up the stage with a stunning 151 checkout in the fourth leg, then sealed the opening set in just six minutes with an 86 finish.

The teenager saved his best for last, producing a sensational 144 checkout that left Van Veen throwing his hands up in disbelief.

The Dutchman could only smile and shake his head, knowing he'd played superbly but been beaten by something special.

This marked a significant turnaround from last year when Littler fell at the first hurdle, losing to Rob Cross in the East Midlands.

After his victory, Littler fired a sharp warning towards his rivals, saying he'll maintain his aggressive approach: "I said I would be fiery and I showed that. Hopefully, this is my next major."