The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) has launched a full-scale investigation following explosive new evidence that suggests teenage sensation Luke Littler has been using illicit methods to achieve his remarkable string of nine-dart finishes, prompting an angry outburst from former chairman Barry Hearn.
In a leaked internal memo obtained by this newspaper, PDC security analysts claim to have uncovered what they describe as “irregularities” in Littler’s dart setup and throwing technique, specifically during televised matches where he landed perfect 180s and subsequent nine-dart legs.
According to the report, slow-motion footage reveals that Littler, 19, has been using a modified tungsten barrel with an unapproved micro-grip texture that allegedly allows for “predictable treble-20 deflection.” More startlingly, acoustic analysis suggests that his darts emit a frequency that interferes with nearby opponent’s concentration — a charge Littler’s camp has dismissed as “science fiction.”
However, it is the claim regarding “board mapping” that has caused the biggest storm. The PDC document alleges Littler and his team secretly photographed and digitally mapped the slight variations in sisal density on competition dartboards ahead of matches, allowing him to aim for pre-identified “sweet spots” where darts stick more consistently.
When pressed on the findings, outspoken former PDC chairman Barry Hearn did not hold back.
“This is not darts. This is cheating, plain and simple,” Hearn told The Darts Insider. “We’ve got kids up and down the country practicing six hours a day, and one player thinks he can short-circuit the sport with gimmicks and hidden tricks. He is killing our sport. Killing it. If these allegations are true, he should be banned for life.”
Littler’s manager denied any wrongdoing, calling the claims “a desperate smear campaign” from rivals unable to match the teenager’s natural talent. “Luke throws darts the same way he did at age 12. The only ‘trick’ is hours of practice,” the statement read.
The PDC has refused to comment on potential sanctions but confirmed that Littler’s equipment has been seized for independent testing. A decision is expected before the next World Series event.
For now, the sport is left divided. Some fans have already taken to social media with the hashtag #DartsCheat, while others accuse Hearn of grandstanding to protect older stars.
One thing is certain: The boy who was meant to save darts is now at the centre of its biggest scandal in decades.
