Luke Littler's increased security protection was revealed after he quickly became one of the biggest names in sport.
Littler burst onto the scene aged 16 by reaching the World Darts Championship final, losing to Luke Humphries at the final hurdle after a stunning run.
He then went on to win the Premier League and two other PDC major titles before winning back-to-back World Darts Championships - joining Phil Taylor and Gary Anderson in the exclusive club.
Littler has been integral to the growth of darts and the PDC's increased £5 million prize money pot for the most recent tournament.
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But with his relatively new-found fame, it was decided that measures needed to be taken to protect him in public.
After Littler smashed Michael van Gerwen 7-3 to become the youngest ever world champion, his previous management company ZXF Sports, ran by Martin Foulds, brought in bodyguard Peter Purkins to look after him.
As per the Daily Express, a source said: "Luke is now one of the most recognisable faces in the country and has a lot of new fans.
"Sometimes people can be a little overzealous when they see him, so it’s sensible to have someone alongside him who can step in to help if needed."
Purkins, with his large frame, has accompanied Littler to various events and previously worked for Premier League footballers Thierry Henry and Peter Crouch.
Littler makes darts history with mega deal
Littler was managed by ZXF Sports before the five-year relationship came to an amicable end in October. Martin Foulds, who set up and ran the firm, also had Nathan Aspinall and Chris Dobey on his books but has stepped away from the industry after eight years to prioritise spending time with family.
Littler is now fully represented by Target Darts, his long-time arrows supplier who he has been associated with since the age of 12.
They are now managing him as well as providing his equipment and it was recently announced that 'The Nuke' had signed the biggest deal in the history of darts.
Reports claim the contract is worth £20 million over 10 years, with potential earnings and bonuses and percentage of sales of products and equipment factored in.
“Target has believed in me from day one," Littler said.
“I’m delighted that there are many more years to come. From my playing career to my product range, we’ve built everything together and I’m really excited to commit to our partnership long-term and see where we can take this next.”
Next up for Littler is the Bahrain Darts Masters, a competition he is yet to win. It takes place on January 15-16 before the Saudi Arabia Darts Masters.
Topics: Luke Littler, World Darts Championship, Darts
Josh Lawless