Luke Littler breaks silence after dumping 21-year-old girlfriend Eloise

Luke Littler has hit out after splitting up with girlfriend Eloise Milburn. The former partner of the 17-year-old was regularly seen supporting the teenage star at events, including at the Ally Pally in December and January when he embarked on his remarkable run to the PDC World Championship final.

But after the 17-year-old produced an off-colour display in his defeat to Michael van Gerwen at the World Matchplay this week, reports emerged that he'd broken off their relationship.

Littler had not commented publicly on the speculation, but has now taken to Instagram with a plea to fans.

"Everyone needs to stop sending hate towards Eloise saying it's her fault this and that," he wrote. "I myself split up with Eloise and everyone just needs to give us some time, no need for everyone to message her and give her grief."

The pair got together just weeks before the start of the World Championship, and only recently went on holiday to New York. Littler was also regularly seen seeking her out in the crowd after his matches, with the two not afraid to embrace in public.

But according to The Sun, recent developments have affected the star. A source was quoted as saying: "Luke and Eloise have broken up and it is still very raw. He is naturally very upset but they have agreed to stay friends."

Littler's hectic schedule is said to have put strain on the relationship. The age gap between the pair has also come under scrutiny, with Milburn, 21, previously speaking out after being targeted by internet trolls.

"It was tough to start with," she previously admitted. "The first day I let it get to me a lot. But you learn that as long as the pair of you are happy, that's all that matters. The people that matter most are supportive of us."

Littler, who would regularly upload photos of him and Milburn together on social media, was also defiant. He told critics he would "stick with her whether people like it or not."

The player did not cite any personal issues after his tame exit in Blackpool, losing 10-6 to Van Gerwen in the first round. And he was notably below his best, struggling to maintain any kind of momentum.

The world No.25 remains the marquee star of the sport though, having captured his maiden Premier League title in May. And amid his meteoric rise, he's been credited with attracting a new audience to darts.