Darts
2024 Grand Slam of Darts: Luke Littler Brushes Off Pressure Ahead of Semis
Teen darts star Luke Littler reaches his first PDC televised ranking semi-final, staying focused despite being the favourite, and acknowledges the challenge of facing underdog opponents with freedom to play.
Luke Littler, the teenage darting prodigy, continues to defy expectations and set records, surging into his first-ever PDC televised ranking semi-final.
In a dominant performance at the 2024 Grand Slam of Darts, Littler demolished Dutch underdog Jermaine Wattimena 16-2, underlining his status as one of the brightest young stars in the sport.
Littler’s Calm Composure Belies the Pressure of Being the Favourite
The 17-year-old has been a favourite among both fans and bookmakers throughout the year, ever since his unforgettable World Championship campaign. But now, for the first time in his career, Littler finds himself as the highest-ranked player remaining in a major PDC tournament.
Despite the added weight of expectation, Littler brushed off any suggestion that he was feeling the pressure.
"Not really," Littler said when asked if the situation added pressure.
"I know myself, looking on social media, I'm the favourite to win it. But the underdog could come back and win it. So, I've just got to fully focus on my darts,” Littler told SportsBoom.com.
His calm demeanour is reflective of his maturity beyond his years, as he keeps his focus on the task at hand.
An Unlikely Semi-Final Matchup
Littler also acknowledged the strength of his side of the draw, which he believes has presented more challenging matchups than the opposite side.
Despite his confidence, he’s under no illusion that his potential opponents in the final, either Martin Lukeman or Mickey Mansell, will be easy to overcome if he manages to beat Gary Anderson in the semi-final.
"I do know that the side of the draw I'm in, it's a lot tougher than the other side," Littler explained.
"But that's just how the draw happens. I know Martin [Lukeman] and Mickey [Mansell] will be there champing at the bit after making a semi-final. I've just got to focus on my game, and hopefully get through to the final."
High-Profile Experience Give Littler an Edge, but He Stays Wary
Littler has already made a name for himself as a giant slayer, often thriving against the sport’s elite in high-stakes encounters. His remarkable run includes a victory over Luke Humphries in the 2024 Premier League final, proving he can rise to the occasion against top-ranked players.
Yet, if he reaches the Grand Slam final, Littler will face an opponent ranked outside the world’s top 32 for the first time at this stage of a major event.
When asked if it would make a difference to face a lower-ranked opponent in the final, given the widespread expectation of an easy victory, Littler maintained his composed outlook.
"I wouldn't say it doesn't matter," he remarked.
He elaborated that his big stage experience could provide an edge over less-experienced players, but he also warned that facing Lukeman or Mansell wouldn’t be as straightforward as some might think.
"This side [of the draw] will have an advantage on the other players, due to the stage experience and the titles," Littler explained, recognising that these matchups bring their own complexities.
Littler concluded with a thoughtful observation about his potential opponents’ mindsets. With the pressure off their shoulders, Lukeman and Mansell will be able to play without restraint, which could make them dangerous adversaries.
"For Martin and Mickey, it's a free shot for them to just enjoy their darts," he said. "I've been watching them when I've been back at the hotel. I just need to focus on my games."
As the young star gears up for his semi-final showdown, his grounded approach and steely focus suggest he’s ready for whatever comes next. Whether he’s facing a former world champion or a hungry underdog, Littler is prepared to rise to the occasion and continue his remarkable journey.
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