Luke Littler has revealed that persistent booing from crowds almost drove him to quit the Premier League Darts, just before he defeated Luke Humphries in a dramatic final at the O2 Arena. The 19-year-old world number one fought back from 6-3 down to win 11-10 in a last-leg decider, claiming the title and a £350,000 prize.
Littler, who has faced pantomime jeers throughout the season, admitted the hostility took a toll on his mental health. After a poor performance in Brighton and an on-stage argument in Manchester, he told his girlfriend Faith, 'I don't want to do it anymore. Just the crowd every week.' He became emotional while recounting the experience.
The final was the third consecutive meeting between darts' top two players in the Premier League showpiece. Littler's victory avenged his loss to Humphries in last year's final. Combined with his record-equalling six nightly wins, Littler earned a total of £410,000 over the 17-week season.
Earlier, Littler survived a tense semi-final against Gerwyn Price, winning 10-9 after squandering six match darts. The match featured a flashpoint when Price mimed reeling in a 'big fish' after scoring 170, a gesture that prompted a warning from referee Huw Ware. Price later apologised.
Humphries reached the final by defeating Jonny Clayton 10-9 in a see-saw semi-final. Clayton was visibly frustrated after a whistle from the crowd appeared to distract him as he threw for double 16 to win, allowing Humphries to step in and clinch the match.
