When Raymond van Barneveld last became world champion, Luke Littler was not yet born. Before the darts duel, the veteran described himself as “immortal”.
Before the highly anticipated darts clash with Luke Littler, 40 years his junior, Raymond van Barneveld was in a talking mood. The Dutchman spoke to the press for almost an hour after his victory over Welshman Jim Williams in London.
Williams was hardly an issue, instead it was almost all about Littler as the next rival. Barney’s message was clear: I’m ready for the young boy. “I am one of the immortals in this sport,” the 56-year-old Dutchman proudly announced.
When van Barneveld won his fifth and last world title on January 1, 2007, Littler (16) was not yet born. This happened exactly 20 days after the memorable final between Barney and England legend Phil Taylor, who now advises Littler. The upcoming round of 16 duel (9.30 p.m./DAZN and Sport1) between young and old, which in terms of age could also be grandpa against grandson, is also electrifying the World Cup in Alexandra Palace.
And the debutant Littler, who has been so strong so far, continues to fuel the anticipation of fans and experts. On Friday, the Englishman posted a video on X (formerly Twitter) of himself at the age of three imitating his then hero van Barneveld during his World Cup triumph in the Ally Pally. “13 years later I meet the legend himself and on the biggest stage in the world,” wrote Littler in the short video, in which he wore a Steven Gerrard England jersey.
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Source: Stern
I am Pierce Boyd, a driven and ambitious professional working in the news industry. I have been writing for 24 Hours Worlds for over five years, specializing in sports section coverage. During my tenure at the publication, I have built an impressive portfolio of articles that has earned me a reputation as an experienced journalist and content creator.
