Luke Littler has admitted he ‘lost his head’ on the stage after hitting back at fans for their boos during the World Darts Championships at Ally Pally.
The defending champion, 18, saw off Rob Cross 4-2 in a tricky last-16 clash in which he was booed by some sections of the crowd.
‘I’m not bothered, really I’m not bothered,’ Littler said when asked about the boos immediately after the match.
‘Can I just say one thing? You guys paid for tickets and you’re paying for my prize money – so thank you for my money.
‘Thank you for booing me, come on!’
Littler was questioned about his response to what he labelled a ‘hostile’ atmosphere during the match, as the crowd got behind Cross.
Luke Littler hit out at Ally Pally fans over their boos and thanked them for his prize money
‘I think I lost it, I think it is still on there [the stage],’ Littler said.
‘It is one of those things, the fans, you have got to leave it all in there and give out the odd little ones for the checkouts and breaks of throw, but leave it all until that winning dart.
‘I think two years ago I would have started throwing my darts left handed, but that is how much I have grown and matured.
‘People might not say I am mature, but try being in my position.
‘I think it is the first time I have been at the World Championships and the crowd haven’t wanted me to win.
‘I expect the worst on New Year’s Day, whoever I do play.’
Some darts fans have accused Littler of arrogance following his on stage comments and urged the youngster to remain humble.
‘Great game ruined by daft comments at the end,’ one fan wrote on social media.
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Was Luke right to lash out at the crowd?
Some fans accused Littler of arrogance after mocking the crowd, but others defended his reaction to the crowd
Littler admitted that he had ‘lost his head’ on stage and ‘expects the worst on New Year’s Day’
Another added: ‘No one could doubt your skills and ability, but the arrogance ain’t good to watch. Keep humble even through greatness.’
‘Shame on you for your words after the game, saying the spectators are paying your prize money,’ a third said.
‘You’re a special player at 18, but unfortunately, your success has gone to your head.’
Others came to Littler’s defence, with some praising his ‘heel turn’ and willingness to take on the crowd.
‘YES! go on Littler! We were all shouting for you tonight. Your quote about tickets were iconic,’ one wrote.
‘Absolutely brilliant Luke. What a game that’s why you are the best in the world onto the next really really can’t wait.
‘Great finish to the year. Passion, you defo have.’
Littler is awaiting his quarter-final opponent, with the defending champion set to face either Luke Woodhouse or Krzysztof Ratajski.
