Lisa Littler, mother of darts sensation Luke Littler, has launched a fierce defence of her son after he faced jeers from sections of the crowd during his World Darts Championship victory at Alexandra Palace.
Mother's Fiery Social Media Defence
The defending champion secured a 4-2 win against Rob Cross in a tricky last-16 clash on Monday evening, but the atmosphere turned sour as some fans booed the teenage star. In a bullish post-match response, the 18-year-old world number one thanked those who had jeered him for 'paying for my prize money'.
However, it was his mother Lisa who delivered the strongest rebuke online, taking to social media platform X to confront critics. Responding to one commenter who questioned why Littler could 'financially ridicule' the audience, Lisa wrote: 'So they buy tickets with there (sic) hard earned money to sit there like t**ts and boo (thumbs up emoji)'.
She didn't hold back elsewhere, labelling the behaviour of some spectators as 'vile' and mocking other detractors with defiant emoji-laden replies. When one user claimed the 'more I watch Luke Littler, the more I hate him', Lisa responded teasingly: 'Aww gutted for ya nottt (sic) (two laugh-crying emojis)'.
Littler Reflects on 'Hostile' Atmosphere
While his mother waged war online, Luke Littler himself addressed the unusual hostility he faced at the historic north London venue, which is famous for its festive rowdiness. 'I think it is the first time I have been at the World Championships and the crowd haven't wanted me to win,' he admitted in his post-match press conference.
The young champion showed remarkable composure, acknowledging his own growth. 'I think two years ago I would have started throwing my darts left handed, but that is how much I have grown and matured,' Littler stated. He also braced for a similar reception in his next match, adding: 'I expect the worst on New Year's Day, whoever I do play.'
Quarter-Final Awaits After Family Support
Lisa and her partner, Anthony, have been constants in their son's corner throughout his meteoric rise to the top of world darts, supporting him at his World Championship triumph earlier this year and at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards.
Their support will be needed again as Luke Littler now prepares for his quarter-final clash on New Year's Day. He will face Polish star Krzysztof Ratajski, who secured his place with a 4-2 defeat of Luke Woodhouse.
The incident has sparked debate about player-fan interactions in the sport, highlighting the intense pressure and scrutiny faced by its youngest stars, even in the midst of championship defence.
