Darts legend Raymond van Barneveld has expressed his disappointment with young star Luke Littler, who he claims ignored his messages. The Dutch icon, one of Littler's biggest inspirations, was upset when the 17-year-old didn't respond to his congratulatory messages after winning the Belgian Darts Open.
The two had previously played against each other at the World Championships last December, where Littler gained fame. A video of toddler Littler pretending to be Barney went viral on social media as they met on stage, with Littler winning 4-1 and boasting an impressive 105 average and nine 180s. After the game, both players spoke highly of each other, but it seems their relationship has since soured.
In an interview with Dutch outlet Sportnieuws, Barney shared his frustrations towards 'The Nuke', saying: "So that's the weird thing about it. I understood then that I am his example. That at the World Championship you don't chat I can understand, but other tournaments... The other day I walked up to him to shake his hand. Then he took out his earplug for a moment and only said the most necessary thing."
Van Barneveld decided to send him a message. He said: "To that he responded: yes, I only respond to text messages. Whatsapp I'm actually not on. Well fine, I sent a text message: Congratulations with Wieze. And then nothing. Fine. Then I'm also a bit done with it. The next time I get asked if I want to do something for him, I'll pass", reports the Daily Star. "I understand that you get thousands text messages but of course I'm not just anyone," Van Barneveld added. "If I've been your inspiration for years, I also expect a text message back." With a laugh, Van Barneveld remarked, "Dude's on his phone all day, f*** off."
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