It's fair to say that the attention that Luke Littler has received has stirred a mixed response among professional darts players.
The majority of them seem delighted with the added attention that it has brought to the sport, something that can only benefit them in the long run. As well as that, most players seem to get on well with the 17-year old both on and off the stage.
In saying that, there have been a few instances where this hasn't been the case.
Gary Anderson was quick to point out the potential negatives of the coverage of Luke Littler during the World Championships, saying it could cause issues for the youngster down the line. Michael van Gerwen has also questioned the coverage he receives, while Littler was also involved in an on-stage clash with an opponent earlier this month.
Raymond van Barneveld has now become the latest darts star to question the teenager.
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Darts: Raymond van Barneveld calls out Luke Littler behaviour
During his run at the World Darts Championships, Luke Littler said on a number of occasions that Raymond van Barneveld was his biggest idol in the sport.
Despite this, it seems that the Dutchman is not all that fond of the young Englishman at the moment.
Speaking to Sportnieuws.nl, he hammered Littler after a couple of less than friendly interactions between the pair in recent times.
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...
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.
I understand that you get thousands text messages but of course I’m not just anyone.
If I’ve been your inspiration for years, I also expect a text message back. Dude’s on his phone all day, f**k off.
Raymond van Barneveld is clearly unhappy with what he feels is a slight from Luke Littler, although the whole issue seems a bit overblown.
It clear that the 17-year old remains a hugely popular figure among both darts fans and the vast majority of professional players.
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