Michael van Gerwen has launched a scathing attack on teenage darts sensation Luke Littler after the 18-year-old arrived 45 minutes late to a Premier League media launch in Belfast.
The three-time world champion expressed his frustration as he and other competitors were left waiting for the delayed teenager to arrive at the event.
The Dutch star insisted Littler needs to start acting more professionally, declaring that the young player can no longer be treated like a baby.
When initially asked about Littler's late arrival, Van Gerwen responded dismissively with "Who?"
Michael van Gerwen was furious with Luke Littler after his late appearance
Darts Now
When pressed further about what was described as a 25-minute delay, the Dutch star corrected the figure, stating "45 minutes late, you mean."
The incident unfolded at the Premier League media launch, where Van Gerwen and fellow competitors had gathered for promotional duties.
Van Gerwen delivered a stark message about Littler's conduct, saying: "They need to stop treating him as a baby, eh?
"He's not baby any more, he's 18 years old now."
The Dutch star emphasised the importance of responsibility in professional sport.
"No, it happens, you have to learn the hard way. It's a professional sport, so you have to be responsible for your actions as well, simple as that," Van Gerwen added.
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Van Gerwen further emphasised the impact of Littler's tardiness on his fellow competitors.
"If he turns up late for an interview, I don't really mind. But now seven other people is waiting for him, so that's not really nice, is it?" the Dutch star said.
The criticism comes as Van Gerwen also dismissed comparisons between Littler and darts legend Phil Taylor.
When asked if facing Littler in competition was similar to facing Taylor, Van Gerwen was direct in his response: "Na. Phil Taylor was a different kind of animal."
Luke Littler beat Michael van Gerwen to win the World Darts Championship last month
Reuters
The Premier League gets underway on Thursday night in Belfast with Littler looking to defend his crown after winning it last year.
The teenager won the competition at the first time of asking after being invited onboard by the PDC following his incredible run to the World Darts Championship that year.
Van Gerwen, meanwhile, will be looking to wrestle away the title from the youngster's hold - having won a record seven Premier Leagues.
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