Luke Littler criticizes Ally Pally crowd in fiery statement following victory over Rob Cross
Luke Littler triumphed over Rob Cross to secure a spot in the PDC World Darts Championship quarter-finals. However, Littler expressed his frustration towards the Ally Pally audience for booing him throughout the match.
As the defending champion, Littler faced Cross, who had strong support from fans present at Ally Pally. Despite his win, ‘The Nuke’ took issue with being booed by sections of the crowd both during the game and while giving his post-match interview for Sky Sports.
Clearly agitated, Littler addressed the crowd, stating, “Can I make one point? You are the ones purchasing tickets and contributing to my prize money, so thank you for both, including the booing! I had to fight hard; Rob had his moments, and I responded. I just glanced at the stats – my focus was solely on winning. The atmosphere was hostile, with few rooting for my victory, but they were mistaken.”
Littler had maintained a flawless record in the championship until his encounter with Cross, ultimately prevailing with a 4-2 victory. His remarks sparked varied reactions online, with one observer sarcastically quoting, “‘I’m not rattled’ from a visibly rattled Luke Littler.”
While some criticized Littler for his response, labeling it as “classless,” others welcomed his perceived shift towards a more confrontational persona, with one supporter expressing enthusiasm for a potential “heel turn” by Littler.
Commenting on Littler’s statements, Sky Sports pundit Wayne Mardle remarked, “It was a peculiar interview! It seemed as though he was searching for something, reacting to provocation. His composure under pressure is remarkable. Despite the challenges, he maintained his performance, and credit to Rob Cross for his resilience.”
Mardle continued, “Littler excels under pressure, showcasing exceptional skill on the board. His opponents are never secure in any situation when facing him. He continues to push boundaries and remains a formidable force in the game.”
Stay updated with the latest news stories by subscribing to email alerts.