**Luke Littler Responds After Darts Legend Questions MBE Honour**
Rising darts sensation Luke Littler has issued a robust response after darts icon Dennis Priestley criticised his recent appointment as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), stating that he has, in his own words, “done more in 12 months than [Priestley] ever did.” The exchange has ignited debate across the darts community, as Littler, just 18 years of age, continues to break records and garner national recognition.
Littler, who made history as the youngest-ever victor of the PDC World Darts Championship in January, has earned his place among the sport’s most promising stars. His triumph over Michael van Gerwen secured his rapid elevation to household name status and solidified his impressive start in an already glittering career. In addition to the world title, Littler’s resume boasts victories at the UK Open, the Grand Slam, and the Premier League Darts—remarkable by any measure, let alone someone so early in their professional journey.
His achievements were further acknowledged when King Charles III named him in this year’s Birthday Honours list, with an MBE for his contributions to darts. Luke Humphries, currently world number one and Littler’s contemporary, was also awarded an MBE. For many supporters, such accolades are testament to both players’ positive impact and popularity, particularly given their ability to attract new audiences to the sport.
Yet, not everyone shares this view. Dennis Priestley, a two-time world champion and seminal figure in darts history, was less enthusiastic. Speaking after a defeat at the World Cup of Darts that saw the English pair, Littler and Humphries, knocked out by Germany in the first round, Priestley questioned whether the duo had truly earned their honours so early. He also suggested a lack of team spirit may have played a part in their World Cup exit, pointing out apparent differences in preparation compared to his own experience of playing alongside Phil Taylor.
Priestley commented, “To be brutally honest, I don’t think either Luke Littler or Luke Humphries have done enough to earn their MBEs just yet. I think in time they could’ve done enough to warrant it but it feels very early. They’ve both won one World Championship and are still young in their careers.” The 74-year-old also acknowledged Littler’s influence on the game’s popularity, but felt a more cautious approach was needed when granting such prestigious honours.
Littler, keen to defend his record, did not hesitate to voice his perspective. Taking to Instagram, he briefly shared his feelings, asserting: “Don’t deserve an MBE but done more in 12 months than he ever did… that’s what I would say.” The post was deleted soon after, but not before sparking widespread discussion among fans.
For context, Priestley’s own career stands as a significant chapter in darts history. A founding member of the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC), he lifted the WDF World Championship in 1991 and claimed the PDC world title shortly after. His sustained legacy and respected standing in the sport underline the weight of his views, making Littler’s response all the more noteworthy.
Observers note that Littler’s rapid ascent is atypical in the sport. Within a single year, he has managed to capture several major trophies and brought fresh energy and attention to darts. While some purists may say time is the true test of greatness, others argue Littler’s recent achievements and his role as a modern ambassador are worthy of recognition.
The ongoing dialogue between darts legends past and present highlights broader questions about when and how sporting honours are bestowed. With Littler’s career only just taking off, this debate is likely to continue in the months ahead.
What is clear is that the young player’s passion and self-assurance show no signs of wavering, and for many in the darts world, Luke Littler is already inspiring the next generation—regardless of the honours he collects along the way.