14 March 2024 , 22:47
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Ricardo Pietreczko has issued a grovelling apology to Luke Littler after accusing him of being “arrogant”.
The pair were involved in a tense showdown during last week’s Belgian Darts Open. After Littler had beaten the German 7-3 in their semi-final clash, Pietreczko went to shake his victor’s hand.
While they were doing that, Pietreczko - known as Pikachu - got in Littler’s face and appeared to share some stern words. It was unclear what was said between the two but it seemed as though he took exception to the youngster's difficult checkouts.
Pietreczko then took to social media with his complaints. He wrote: “I really appreciate the fact that he can play a game like that at such an age. But I hope his arrogance punishes him.”
Meanwhile, Littler also shared his thoughts on the exchange on Facebook. The 17-year-old wrote: “No idea what I did wrong, no idea what he said.”
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With the dust now settled, Pietreczko has apologised for his actions. Writing on his Instagram story, he said: “Hi fans! I wanted to apologise for my behaviour on stage. I was really proud of reaching the semi finals but got a little bit too emotional and overreacted in the game.
“Sorry Luke Littler and big respect for what you achieved! And usually I am also a fans of fancy checkouts”, alongside a wink emoji. He added: “Looking forward to the Pro Tours in Germany next week! Thanks for your support! Yours, Pikachu.”
Ricardo Pietreczko took aim at Luke Littler after the pair's Belgian Darts Open clash (Getty Images)Who will win the Premier League Darts? Share your predictions in the comments below
Littler eventually got the last laugh over his opponent by winning in Wieze on what was his European Tour debut. He overcame Rob Cross 8-7 in an epic final.
Despite the success that the youngster has enjoyed, he is still yet to claim a Premier League victory. He has reached one final, five further semi-finals and one quarter-final.
Littler reached the last four once again in Nottingham on Thursday evening but eventually fell to Nathan Aspinall 6-3. It leaves him in third in the table. His next chance to win a Premier League event will come in a couple of weeks’ time in Dublin.
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