Littler defends youth entry after coach critique Pusey nickname banned

World champion Luke Littler has publicly rebuked a former professional turned coach after the coach criticised Littler for entering a youth tournament days after winning a major title, while Australian qualifier Tim Pusey has been told he cannot use his nickname at the upcoming World Darts Championship. Both developments come as the sport’s autumn calendar moves into the European Championship in Dortmund and preparations begin for the winter World Championship at Alexandra Palace.

Littler, 18, who is defending his world title, was eliminated in the semifinals of the World Youth Championship by Beau Greaves. His decision to compete drew sharp criticism from ex-professional Andy Cornwall, who said on a podcast, "Ridiculous. Absolutely ridiculous. It was a bit like, Look at me, look at me, look at me. Everything is about me." Cornwall argued Littler should have stood aside to allow other youth players an opportunity. Littler responded on social media, posting that Cornwall was "an absolute helmet of a bloke" and that he did not know him.

Littler defended his choice to enter other events earlier, saying he wanted match practice under short format conditions and noting other tour...