Luke Littler could be set to pocket a cool £20million after deciding to manage himself. The 18-year-old darts sensation announced his split from ZXF Sport management earlier this week.
The news broke just before his first World Grand Prix match in Leicester, where he triumphed over Gian van Venn. After the game, Littler confirmed his plans to take control of his own career.
“I’m on my own. Just as myself, I think it’s better,” he revealed to Sportsboom.
“Obviously I’ve got my family to support me and obviously Martin [Foulds] had done his job, but I think it was the right time. Booking flights, hotels and all that stuff and we’re on our own.
“I’m going to have help from Garry [Plummer] at Target as well. It’s going to be massive; we’re going in the right direction.
“No one knows what’s been going on behind the scenes. And I won’t be saying anything, but it was just the right time.”
Littler took to social media to confirm his split from his management team. “I want to say a massive thank you to @Zxfsports, and especially @MartinFoulds5, for everything they’ve done for me so far in my career,” he posted.
“We’ve had some amazing times together over the last five years and I’ll always be grateful for the advice and support that’s helped me get to this point.
“As my career moves forward and the schedule gets busier, we’ve agreed it’s the right time for me to take the next step with new representation. Martin has been brilliant for me and I wish him and everyone at ZXF the very best. Excited for what’s ahead.”
Both Littler and his family have now received some advice from former World Champion Dennis Priestley, who highlighted the potential financial benefits but also issued a cautionary note.
Speaking to Boyle Sports, he stated: “Luke Littler is too young for all that goes into management. I made that decision after a few years of being managed and it wasn’t for me.
“Good luck to Littler. When I was playing, I’d say to anyone that wanted to manage me, you can have a percentage on the deals that you get me, but nothing out of tournament prize money. Luke’s family must tell him if they spot that he’s neglecting his practice. At the end of the day, he may have noticed how much the old management was taking because it was most likely a large amount.
“Now that he’s managing himself, I think Luke could earn more than double what Phil Taylor did. If he keeps winning and has longevity, I think it could be around £20million.”
Littler will return to the oche in the World Grand Prix on Thursday night, facing off against Mike De Decker. The match is scheduled to commence at approximately 8.45pm.
