James Wade savaged for comment he made before UK Open final defeat to Luke Littler

James Wade's on-air remarks have gone viral after the 11-time major event winner lost to Luke Littler in the final of the UK Open on Sunday night.

'The Machine' lost 11-2 to Littler in the final, registering an 88 average that was a staggering 13 points behind his opponent's.

Wade's usually reliable record on the doubles also deserted him, as he registered a checkout percentage of just eight per cent.

Missed doubles ultimately prevented the scoreline from being more respectable, but there was no doubt that Littler was the better player throughout the contest.

It was a disappointing end to what had been a strong weekend up to that point for Wade, who won five matches on his way to the final including a thrilling 10-9 quarter-final victory over world number one Luke Humphries.

Speaking after that match, Wade told ITV Sport: "It's all about timing. As soon as young darts players realise that it's not about big 100 averages, it's about timing and the right things at the right time... unfortunately they're going to learn off me. And that's going to be more often."

It appeared clear that Wade was not referring to Littler specifically - rather other young players coming through who score heavily but are not particularly strong on doubles.

'The Machine' has been known throughout his career as being one of the most consistent players when it comes to doubling, often ending legs with his last dart in hand.

But fans noted how his comments were ironic given how he fared with his doubling in the subsequent final against Littler.

One fan wrote: "He doesn't help himself does he."

A second said: "This aged well."

And a third commented: "Comes out with this then proceeds to lose 11-2 to a young dart player."

Wade's UK Open run did ensure that he reached the final of a major TV event for the first time since the 2023 season.

He has moved up to 12th in the world rankings, ahead of Peter Wright, though a win over Littler could have moved him up as high as seventh.

As for Littler, the 18-year-old further cemented his position in second place after another major title win - his first televised success since lifting the World Championship for the first time back in January.