At every major darts event around the world, one figure in the crowd has become as familiar as the players themselves — Anthony “Ant” Buckley, the proud father of teenage darts superstar Luke Littler. But it wasn’t just his presence that caught people’s attention. It was the bobble hat he always wears, perched cheerfully on his head regardless of location or weather. Recently, Luke opened up about the touching story behind that hat — and the reason turns out to be much more meaningful than fans might have guessed.
From the moment Littler burst onto the world darts scene as a teenage prodigy, Anthony has been a constant presence at his side. Whether travelling to prestigious PDC events or cheering on his son from the crowd, Ant’s unwavering support has become part of Littler’s competitive identity. But recently, fans began to wonder: why the hat, every single time?
Speaking candidly in a recent interview, Luke explained that the hat is more than a quirky fashion choice or a bit of superstition. Instead, it’s a symbol of support, awareness and solidarity with a cause that has become close to his family’s heart. The story began when Luke, Anthony and the rest of the Littler family were invited onto a popular TV show. While there, they met Gary Hollingworth, a man whose life had been forever changed by tragedy — losing his young son, Matthew, to bone cancer in 2022.
“It all started on that show,” Littler said. “We were there, and we heard his story. It was heartbreaking, but the strength they showed was incredible.” Following that appearance, Gary and his family introduced the Littlers to The Matthew22 Fund, a charity they established in memory of Matthew to help children and families facing life-threatening illnesses.
Since then, Anthony has chosen to wear the bobble hat — and matching wristbands — at every tournament and public appearance as a quiet but powerful way of spreading awareness. According to Luke, the hats weren’t meant to draw attention to themselves but to spark curiosity and conversations that might lead others to learn about the fund and the work it does.
“We were given these hats and bands to help spread awareness,” Luke explained. “Dad wears his every time, and if people ask — well, that’s the point. It’s about showing a bit of awareness, not just for darts but for something that really matters.” He added with a smile that if his dad believes the hat brings luck, “then that’s just a bonus.”
Over time, the bobble hat has transformed from a simple accessory into a symbol of goodwill and connection within the darts community. Fellow players, commentators and fans have come to recognize it not just as a quirky trademark, but as a reminder of the importance of compassion off the oche. In a sport where personal stories often resonate as much as tournament wins, the Littler family’s decision to embrace the cause has touched many.
The relationship between Luke and his dad has always been close. From the early days of supporting his son’s rapid ascent through youth and professional ranks to celebrating major victories, Ant has been in Luke’s corner — literally and figuratively. But this story shows a side of their bond that goes beyond sport: a shared commitment to helping others and using their platform for good.
Luke himself is no stranger to leveraging his success for positive impact. Alongside supporting the Matthew22 Fund, he’s also involved in campaign work to tackle male loneliness through sport, partnering with other well-known athletes in initiatives designed to build community and connection among people who might otherwise feel isolated.
For a young champion often in the spotlight for his remarkable talent, it’s this blend of humility, heart and purpose that continues to endear him — and his family — to fans around the world. And as long as he’s competing at the highest level, there’s little doubt that his dad’s bobble hat will be there too: not just as a cheerful fixture in the crowd, but as a symbol of something much bigger.