06 January 2024 , 21:19
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Luke Littler has the potential to become the richest player in darts history, says oche legend Bobby “The King of Bling” George.
The 16-year-old sensation banked £200,000 for his run to the World Championship final and is set to bag sponsorship deals worth millions. Bobby, 78, said: “He can become the richest player ever. He’s got the talent and he’s at the top of the world now in darts. The more oches you tread, the better you get. And he’s going to go and tread a lot of oches now and earn a lot of money. It’s great for a young man of that age.”
But Bobby warned Luke – who is dating Eloise Milburn, 21 – to be careful to avoid spending his money on “fast cars and women”. And he said there will be “dart sharks” out to take his money.
Luke Littler at the finals (PA)“He’s selling a product – himself,” said Bobby. “He’ll be OK as long as he can keep himself from getting too lairy or big-headed or anything like that – just be a nice boy and practise. There are a lot of dart sharks out there, people who will tell you, ‘Sign a contract and we’ll do this’.
“You’ve got to be careful signing contracts because they could not stick to their bargain but you’re tied so you’ve had it. I’ve seen it happen before to other players. But he seems quite sensible for his age and doesn’t seem phased by anything.” Bobby, a top player before embarking on a BBC TV career, was impressed by Luke’s performance in the final and believes his success can continue in the sport’s Premier League this year.
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He said: “He needs to keep his feet on the floor, practice and do what he’s been doing, as he’s doing something right. As long as he sticks with his parents and listens to them, he can’t go far wrong.”