Darts world champion Luke Littler is steeling himself for a hostile reception when he returns to the Alexandra Palace oche, after a fiery exchange with sections of the crowd during his fourth-round victory.
Littler's Uncharacteristic Outburst
The 18-year-old phenom, known as 'The Nuke', did not hold back after being subjected to boos and jeers during his 4-2 win over Rob Cross on Monday night. In a moment of raw emotion, Littler gestured to the spectators, later telling them they were helping to fund the players' prize money through their ticket purchases.
"That’s the first time I’ve been at the World Championship and the crowd haven’t wanted me to win," Littler admitted. Reflecting on his reaction, he stated, "It was just pure emotion. I said what I said... I’m not regretting anything." However, he concedes he must learn to manage such situations better, vowing to "keep it all in me until that final dart."
Bracing for the Quarter-Final Atmosphere
Littler now faces a quarter-final clash on New Year's Day against either Luke Woodhouse or Krzysztof Ratajski. He is under no illusions about the atmosphere that may await him. "I expect the worst on New Year’s Day, wherever I do play," he said. "And whatever happens, happens. I’m ready for New Year’s Day."
Despite the external pressure, his performance against Cross was statistically superb. He averaged 106.58 and hit a tournament-record 17 180s up to that point in the competition. Littler credited his mental growth for being able to maintain his focus, suggesting that a few years ago the crowd's reaction might have caused him to completely lose his way.
Maturity Under Fire
The young champion pointed to his resilience as proof of his development. "Two years ago, I think I would have started throwing my darts left handed, to be honest," he quipped. "But that’s how much I’ve grown. That’s how much I’ve matured. And people might not say I’m mature, but try to be in my position."
He acknowledged that the crowd often roots for the underdog, a dynamic he had to overcome. "They want the favourites to go out. And yeah, I just had to get out of the way and get my job done," Littler concluded. With his eyes firmly on retaining the Sid Waddell Trophy, he added, "I’m only a few games away from lifting the trophy once again."
