LONDON– The world of darts is in mourning today following the tragic news of the passing of Anthony Littler, the father of teenage darts phenomenon Luke Littler. Tributes have poured in from across the sporting community, offering support to the 17-year-old prodigy and his family during this immensely difficult time.
News of Anthony’s passing emerged quietly on social media before being confirmed by close friends of the family. The cause of death has not been disclosed, and the family has requested privacy as they grieve their loss.
Anthony, often seen supporting his son from the sidelines during Luke’s meteoric rise to fame, was a constant and grounding presence in the young athlete’s life. He was a familiar figure to darts fans, frequently captured on camera sharing emotional embraces with his son after historic victories, most notably during Luke’s incredible run to the World Darts Championship final this past January.
It was a journey Anthony supported from the very beginning, nurturing Luke’s talent from throwing his first darts as a toddler to competing on the world’s biggest stages. He was widely regarded as a pillar of strength and a key figure in Luke’s close-knit support system.
The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) led the tributes, releasing a statement that read: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Anthony Littler. Our hearts go out to Luke and his family at this tragic time. The entire darts community sends its love and support.”
Luke’s rivals and colleagues were quick to offer their condolences. World number one Luke Humphries, who beat Littler in that epic World Championship final, posted on X (formerly Twitter): “So so sad to hear the news. Thinking of Luke and his family. RIP.” Darts legend Raymond van Barneveld added, “No words for this. Heartbreaking. Stay strong Luke.”
Fans have also flocked to social media to express their sympathy, sharing photos of Anthony and Luke together in moments of celebration and using hashtags like #StayStrongLuke to show their support.
The passing of his father casts a shadow over what has been a breathtakingly successful start to Luke Littler’s career. Since his World Championship debut, he has quickly become one of the sport’s biggest stars, winning multiple Premier Darts League nights and his first World Series title.
It is understood that Luke will now take an indefinite break from the sport to be with his family. All immediate fixtures have been postponed.
The loss of Anthony Buckley leaves a void not just in his family’s life, but in the wider darts family that had come to know him as a proud and devoted dad. The focus now is squarely on supporting Luke Littler, not as a global sports star, but as a young man grieving the loss of his father.
