World darts champion Luke Littler has revealed he underwent eye surgery as a young child, a procedure he now believes played an important role in his development, both personally and professionally.

The 18-year-old Englishman, currently the world number one, said he was treated at Warrington Hospital for strabismus, a condition in which the eyes do not align properly. While the condition can sometimes be managed without surgery, Littler confirmed he had corrective treatment when he was around four or five years old.

Speaking candidly, Littler reflected on how different his life — and career — might have been without the operation.

“Who knows?” Littler said when asked if things could have turned out differently.
“When I was four or five I got it sorted. I don’t have memories of it now.
When I was younger, I didn’t really care. But now you look at it, it was a good thing to get done at the time.”

Early Intervention Proved Crucial

Strabismus can affect depth perception, focus, and coordination, all of which are particularly important in precision sports such as darts. Although Littler has no memory of the surgery itself, his comments suggest a growing appreciation for the importance of early medical intervention.

Now competing at the very highest level, Littler’s remarks offer a rare insight into the challenges he overcame before rising to global prominence. They also highlight how childhood healthcare decisions can have long-term impacts, even if their significance is only fully understood later in life.

From Child Prodigy to World Champion

Littler’s career trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary. He won his first senior darts title at just 14 years old, marking him out as a prodigy within the sport. That promise was fully realised in January, when he made history by becoming the youngest world darts champion ever at the age of 17.

Since then, Littler has continued to impress with his composure, accuracy, and consistency, quickly establishing himself as a dominant force on the professional circuit despite his young age.

Focus Shifts Back to Alexandra Palace

With his revelation about childhood surgery now public, Littler’s immediate focus returns to competition. He is set to face Mensur Suljovic in the fourth round of the World Darts Championship when play resumes at Alexandra Palace in London on Saturday.

As the defending champion and top seed, Littler enters the match as one of the favourites, but the teenager has repeatedly stressed the importance of staying grounded and focused despite the attention surrounding him.

A Reminder of the Journey Behind the Success

Littler’s comments serve as a reminder that even the sport’s brightest stars often have unseen stories behind their success. From childhood medical treatment to record-breaking achievements on the world stage, his journey underscores resilience, timing, and the value of early support.

As he continues his title defence, fans will be watching closely — not just a teenage sensation, but a champion whose path to greatness began long before he ever stepped up to the oche.