Luke Littler Reveals Heartwarming Reason Behind Father's Bobble Hat
World number one darts player Luke Littler has shifted focus from his sporting achievements to share a deeply personal story about his father, Anthony Littler, and the small bobble hat that has become a familiar sight at tournaments worldwide. The hat, often noticed by fans during matches, carries a significance far beyond fashion or superstition.
The Bobble Hat's True Purpose
Anthony Littler was recently spotted wearing the distinctive bobble hat during World Series events in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia earlier this month, continuing a pattern that fans have observed at numerous competitions. The 17-year-old world champion has now revealed that the hat serves as a powerful symbol for raising awareness about The Matthew22 Fund, a children's charity supporting families dealing with life-threatening illnesses.
"We were on the Michael McIntyre show," Luke Littler explained during an interview. "I think it's spreading awareness. Some fella, Gary Hollingworth, lost his son at a young age and he's given us hats and something you put on your wrist just to spread that awareness. But if it's a superstition to him, it is what it is. It's just showing a bit of awareness."
The Matthew22 Fund Connection
The charity connection began when the Littler family appeared on Michael McIntyre's Big Show, transforming what might have been seen as a simple habit into a meaningful gesture of support. The Matthew22 Fund was established by Gary Hollingworth and his family following the tragic loss of his son Matthew, who passed away from bone cancer in 2022.
Gary Hollingworth himself appeared on Michael McIntyre's Big Show in February 2025, competing against Luke Littler at Blackpool's Winter Gardens before a large live audience. This appearance significantly boosted the charity's visibility, with Michael McIntyre later becoming its official patron to help amplify its message further.
More Than Just Superstition
Luke Littler emphasized that the story behind the hat matters more than any perceived superstition. "It helps people talk about a cause that is very close to many families," he stated. For Anthony Littler, wearing the hat represents his way of showing care and support while witnessing his son's remarkable ascent to darts supremacy.
The young champion made it clear that while some might interpret the hat as a lucky charm, its true value lies in the awareness it generates for families facing unimaginable challenges. "The message behind it is what truly counts," Luke affirmed, highlighting how sports figures can use their platform for meaningful causes.
Beyond the Darts Arena
Away from the oche, Luke Littler continues to leverage his sporting influence for social good. He is currently collaborating with England rugby legend Jonny Wilkinson on the Team Up campaign, a week-long initiative addressing male loneliness through sports participation.
The project aims to demonstrate how athletic activities can help individuals:
- Find safe spaces for connection
- Build meaningful friendships
- Establish support networks
- Develop community belonging
This dual commitment to charitable causes and social initiatives showcases how modern athletes are expanding their impact beyond competitive achievements, using their visibility to address important societal issues while maintaining excellence in their respective sports.
