Soccer/Football

Luke Littler fights off Ally Pally wasp as iconic insect derails post-match interview after World Darts Championship opener

Dec 11, 2025 - 22:45

Luke Littler was given a fright on stage after winning his first round match at the PDC World Darts Championship.

The defending champion clinched a 3-0 victory over Darius Labanauskas at Alexandra Palace on Thursday night.

Luke Littler on stage at the PDC World Darts Championship

Littler had to avoid the Ally Pally wasp after winning his first round match against Labanauskas[/caption]

Littler was made to work for his win against the Lithuanian despite not dropping a set.

However, the Nuke produced a 101.54 average and seven 180s to ultimately advance to the second round.

He was forced to avoid the infamous Ally Pally dart after his victory, though.

The infamous insect made its first appearance of this year’s tournament moments after Littler’s match.

As the 18-year-old was about to begin his post-match interview, he ducked out the way of the bug.

The wasp continued to fly around Littler as he attempted to swat the insect away.

Sky Sports’ Polly James even joined in to help the teenager avoid being stung and compose himself once again.

Littler was asked about his altercation with the wasp following his win, telling talkSPORT: “I saw it in the second set, or halfway through the first, I can’t remember and then it just disappeared.

“I was like, ‘yeah, it’s gone’. Then as soon as the interview comes, it comes back, but managed to dodge it.”

Reflecting on his win over Labanauskas, Littler told Sky Sports: “It definitely wasn’t easy. Looking at the stats, it didn’t feel like that but I’m happy.

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Luke Littler nearly stung by the Ally Pally wasp

Littler was given a fright on stage as the wasp appeared before his post-match interview[/caption]

“There’s a bit of nerves but once you come here and you win a leg, two legs, then the first set, and that first set is crucial because it settles you down. As long as you win the sets, that’s all that matters.

“Everyone in the tournament wants to win their first round. It’s definitely the hardest game. If you don’t play well, you won’t win.

“The first game is done and now I get 10 days off.”

Littler will face either Mario Vandenbogaerde or David Davies in his next match.

The second round is set to take place between December 20 and 23.

Littler’s tie has been provisionally scheduled for Sunday, December 21.

Luke Littler of England celebrates victory against Darius Labanauskas of Lithuania after the Round One match between Luke Littler and Darius Labanauskas at Alexandra Palace on December 11, 2025 in London, England.

Littler had safely booked his place in the second round before his clash with the infamous insect[/caption]

What is the Ally Pally wasp?

The Ally Pally wasp has become a regular fixture of the PDC World Darts Championship in recent years.

Darts fans often spot the insect buzzing around players on stage at the iconic venue.

Last year’s match between Callan Rydz and Robert Owen saw the bug land on the former’s hair midway through the contest.

Meanwhile, Scott Williams attempted to karate chop the wasp during his win over Damon Heta two years ago.

Littler’s first round win came just hours after he was nominated for BBC Sports Personality of the Year.

Littler, who won the Young Sports Personality of the Year in 2024, has been recognised for a record-breaking 12 months on the oche.

The Ally Pally wasp has already made its first appearance at the PDC World Darts Championship[/caption]

As well as becoming the sport’s youngest world champion and world number one, he has also lifted another five PDC major titles.

When asked if he thinks he will win the prestigious award, he admitted: “Nah, I don’t think so. But if I had to give a winner, definitely Lando (Norris).”

Formula One world champion Lando Norris has also been nominated after clinching the Drivers’ Championship on Sunday.

Elsewhere, Masters champion Rory McIlroy is up for the award once again.

He joins England rugby union star Ellie Kildunne along with Lionesses duo Hannah Hampton and Chloe Kelly on the shortlist.

The winner will be decided by a public vote, with the award presented at a ceremony on Thursday, December 18.

2026 PDC World Championship Odds and Offer

2026 PDC World Darts Championship Winner Odds:

Luke Littler – 1/1
Luke Humphries – 7/2
Gian van Veen – 12/1
Gerwyn Price – 14/1
Josh Rock – 14/1
Michael van Gerwen – 16/1
Nathan Aspinall – 40/1
Stephen Bunting – 40/1

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