Tensions are simmering at the Winter Gardens as former BDO world champion Mark Webster has publicly questioned the legitimacy of teenage sensation Luke Littler’s throwing technique, suggesting that the 18-year-old’s meteoric rise may be built on “unconventional mechanics” that border on illegal.
Webster, now a pundit for Sky Sports, made the remarks during post-match analysis after Littler demolished his opponent with a 107 average in the second round. While stopping short of accusing the “The Nuke” of outright cheating, Webster raised eyebrows by dissecting the youngster’s release point and follow-through.
“I’ve been in this game for 25 years, and I’ve never seen a wrist action like that,” Webster stated. “The way he generates that power with almost no backswing—it defies biomechanics. When you couple that with the speed of his throw, you have to ask: is that a natural dart throw, or is he exploiting a grey area in the rules regarding spin and trajectory?”
Webster specifically pointed to Littler’s distinctive “flick” release, which generates a rapid rotation on the dart. While not prohibited, Webster argued that the technique creates an aerodynamic advantage that the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) has failed to regulate.
“Look at the tape. His darts land in the board at an angle that shouldn’t be physically possible with that velocity. Either he’s found a flaw in the dart’s weighting, or there’s something in the grip that we aren’t seeing. I’m not saying he’s loading the dart, but I am saying the PDC needs to examine the equipment and the action.”
LITTLER FIRES BACK
The world No. 2 was characteristically blunt in his response. “I throw darts. That’s it. Just because I don’t look like a robot like some of the old guard doesn’t mean it’s illegal. If he wants to check my darts, check them. I’ve been playing this way since I was a kid. It’s called talent, Mark.”
Littler’s management has dismissed Webster’s comments as “sour grapes from a pundit who never won a PDC major.”
PDC STAYS MUM
The PDC has so far declined to comment, though sources indicate that tournament officials have conducted routine equipment checks on Littler’s darts—all of which passed standard regulations.
Fans on social media have largely sided with Littler, with many accusing Webster of “trying to stay relevant.” However, a minority of traditionalists have called for a formal review, noting that if Littler’s technique is deemed an unfair advantage, it could force a seismic shift in how the sport is played.
As the World Matchplay heads into its pivotal semi-finals, one thing is certain: all eyes will be on Littler’s hand—and Webster’s commentary box.