World Darts Champion Luke Littler decided against attending the star-studded event in Salford, with Rory McIlroy being named BBC Sports Personality of the Year
Luke Littler hinted at his frustration after he ended the BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony empty handed. The teenage darts sensation opted against attending the glitzy event in Salford, believing he had no chance of winning the main award.
He had tipped Formula 1 world champion Lando Norris as his pick, but he was beaten by golfer Rory McIlroy, with women’s rugby star Ellie Kildunne in second place.
Littler, 18, who won his first World Championship at the start of 2025, was also nominated for Young Sports Personality of the Year and clearly felt he had a better chance of winning that one.
But he was pipped to that gong by England Lioness Michelle Agyemang after her starring role during the team’s successful run to the Euro 2025 title.
Littler spoke via video link during the ceremony, but did issue a short statement on social media following the end of the show. “Thanks to everyone who voted for me tonight, appreciate it. And for Young SPOTY, wow fair enough.”
In a subsequent post, he congratulated McIlroy, adding: “Well done Rory McIlory, never in doubt mate unreal year.”
Littler is the middle of his world title defence at Alexandra Palace and confirmed after his first round match, that he wouldn’t be joining his other nominees.
He said: “No, I’m not going to it. I think they (the BBC) know. I think obviously the people in the top three on the betting odds will obviously go there.
“I think Lando will win. I think I’ve only missed out on four majors this year. So if I won them, do I win it? But good luck to whoever’s going to win it.”
Speaking during the event, he confirmed that he had returned to the north west, but decided to work on his game, rather than stick it on a nice tuxedo.
“Yeah, I’m at The Sidac Social sports club in St. Helens,” Littler said. “This is where the darts academy is. And I’m mid-tournament at the minute so I’ve come for a practice and to speak to you guys.”
He added: “We want more fans engaging with the sport – that’s what we all now want. There’s a few titles on the list that I’ve not ticked off yet that I will go chasing next year, but for now all focus is on the World Darts Championship.”
McIlroy became just the third golfer to ever win the award and the first since Nick Faldo in 1989. It came after a remarkable 2025, which saw him complete the Grand Slam by winning the Masters and then helping Europe to win the Ryder Cup on American soil.
The Ulsterman said: “Wow. First of all I’d like to congratulate the other finalists, I know how much hard work and dedication it takes. It’s a pleasure just to be in this room and I feel honoured just to be a part, so congratulations.
“Look 2025 was the year I made my dreams come true, from Augusta to the Ryder Cup and everything in between. It really has been the year that dreams are made of.
“I have a lot of people to thank, firstly the public for voting for me, but my family, my mum and dad. They sacrificed so much for me and I wouldn’t be here without them. Thank you.
“My wife Erica, my daughter Poppy. They’re what holds me together, they’re my rock. They couldn’t be here tonight, they are back in America, but I can’t wait to get back to see them tomorrow and celebrate with them. I can’t wait to see you, I love you.”
