Luke Littler splits with manager as statement released | Other | Sport

Luke Littler has split with his manager after releasing a statement just hours before the World Grand Prix Darts. The Nuke, who has enjoyed a meteoric rise since bursting onto the scene in 2023, took to social media to announce that he’ll no longer be working with the ZXF Management stable, which is run by Martin Foulds.

Littler has been working with Foulds, the managing director of Prestige Building Supplies Ltd, since 2020 and was guided into the professional ranks by him. Since then, he has established himself as one of the biggest names in the sport, taking darts to new audiences and growing his profile exponentially.

But the 18-year-old revealed on Monday that he would no longer be working with the management agency, who also have darts rival Nathan Aspinall on their books, as he seeks to take his career in a new direction.

In a statement released on social media, Littler said: “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.

“We’ve had some amazing times together over the last 5 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 [fist emoji] [target emoji].”

Foulds was by Littler’s side for his sensational run to the 2024 World Darts Championship final at Ally Pally as an amateur player, where he was beaten by Luke Humphries in the final.

Just a year later, Littler would return and become the youngest ever player to lift the Sid Waddell Trophy, beating Michael van Gerwen in the final to take home the £500,000 prize.

He’d take home an incredible £1million in prize money throughout 2024, with Foulds playing a key role in the youngster signing lucrative commercial contracts and offering key financial advice.

Littler will return to the oche on day two of the World Grand Prix where he’ll take on Gian van Veen in Leicester.