Sky Sports forced to apologise as Michael van Gerwen delivers honest post-match interview after Luke Littler defeat

Michael van Gerwen delivered a respectful post-match interview following his defeat to Luke Littler at the 2025 World Darts Championship final and swore live on-air during a hilarious moment.

Van Gerwen, who was aiming to win his first world title since 2019, succumbed to Littler, who produced a stunning showing, winning their Ally Pally showdown 7-3 on Friday.

Both players spoke to Abigail Davies for Sky Sports as Littler couldn't believe his incredible achievement while Van Gerwen showered his rival with huge praise.

In doing so, Van Gerwen dropped a swear word, calling himself an 'old b**tard' in comparison to the 17-year-old sensation.

Sky Sports were quick to apologise for his colourful language.

"I come on 4-0 behind and I didn't do myself justice but that's the way it is," the Dutchman explained.

"You need to try and fight and battle back but after coming back from 4-0 down I definitely was not the worst player out of us but fair play to him.

"Every moment he got to hurt me, he did.

"Don't get me wrong I had a lovely tournament. I've been battling my own game but that's how it was. You have to take it on the chin and take it as a champion.

"It hurts but that's how it should be. It is what it is."

"Every 17 years a star is born" ⭐️

High praise from Michael van Gerwen for the new champion 🙌 pic.twitter.com/uy0ExXyCGJ

— Sky Sports Darts (@SkySportsDarts) January 3, 2025

Littler said: "I can’t believe it, I honestly can’t believe it.

"We both played so well and I said in my interviews I needed to get off to a quick start and that’s what I done.

"But I knew Michael was behind me the whole game. He was right behind me the whole way through.

"Everyone dreams of lifting this trophy but you need to get through a tough field, even before qualifying.

“I can’t believe it."

He added: "I was practicing back stage on the tops and 10s (D10).

"At 2-0 up I started getting nervous but I said to myself 'just relax'.

"I was throwing for the match but to get it over and done with was special."