Teenage darts sensation Luke Littler has confessed to letting his emotions get the better of him after facing a rare wave of hostility from the crowd during his fourth-round victory at the PDC World Darts Championship.
Unfamiliar Boos Greet Defending Champion
The 18-year-old defending champion, who has enjoyed widespread adoration since his explosive arrival on the scene, was met with boos and jeers as he battled past 2018 winner Rob Cross with a 4-2 scoreline at London's Alexandra Palace. The victory on Tuesday 30 December 2025 booked Littler's place in the quarter-finals, but the atmosphere was a stark contrast to his usual support.
After sealing the match, an animated Littler ran around the stage, gesturing to the spectators who had largely been backing his opponent. He then amplified his response in a fiery on-stage interview, telling the crowd: "You guys pay for tickets and you pay for my prize money, so thank you for my money, thank you for booing me."
Littler Reflects on Maturity and Learning Curve
In a reflective post-match analysis, Littler admitted he had lost his composure. "I think I lost (my head), it's still on there," he stated. The Warrington thrower pointed to his personal growth, noting that two years prior he might have reacted more petulantly. "People might say I have not matured, but try and be in my position," he added, acknowledging he can still learn to manage his emotions better in such high-pressure situations.
Littler identified this as the first time at the World Championship where the crowd had actively rooted against him. He is now braced for a similar reception in his next match, scheduled for New Year's Day. "I will expect the worst on New Year's Day and whatever happens will happen," he said.
Hostility Fuels Champion-Level Performance
Far from derailing him, the adverse reaction appeared to sharpen Littler's game. He produced a stunning performance, averaging 106.5 and hitting 17 maximum 180s – statistics that underline his champion pedigree. "It definitely fuelled me up and it made me play better," Littler revealed, describing the surge of adrenaline and anger he channelled.
Despite the external drama, Littler insisted his focus remained on the job at hand, suggesting the crowd simply wanted a longer match or an underdog victory. "I am glad I won," was his final summation on the encounter.
The young star now awaits the winner of the match between Luke Woodhouse and Krzysztof Ratajski, whom he will face in the quarter-finals on Thursday as he continues his title defence.
