Darts
2024 Grand Slam of Darts: Luke Littler's Pre-Match Routine Revealed by Final Opponent
Luke Littler's unique pre-match routine, including curry and sweets, stunned Martin Lukeman, who praised the 17-year-old's dominance in the Grand Slam of Darts final.
Teenage sensation Luke Littler left the darts world in awe as he crushed Martin Lukeman 16-3 in the 2024 Grand Slam of Darts final, lifting the prestigious Eric Bristow Trophy in his debut year.
Littler’s ruthless display saw him win an incredible 15 consecutive legs, showcasing a level of composure and talent beyond his years.
Lukeman in Awe of ‘The Nuke’
Despite the heavy defeat, Lukeman remained gracious and full of admiration for Littler’s remarkable achievement. Reflecting on the 17-year-old’s extraordinary talent, Lukeman couldn’t help but heap praise on his opponent.
“He is a joke,” Lukeman told SportsBoom.com, astonished. “That's how good he is. It's absolutely ridiculous.”
Littler’s Pre-Final Routine Revealed
Lukeman then shared an amusing insight into Littler’s pre-match routine, which couldn’t have contrasted more starkly with the intense preparation most players undergo.
“He had a curry, and a Boost [chocolate bar], then walks up there and just smashes me like that,” Lukeman revealed.
“I'm like, what? 98% of the players down there just doing what they do, but he’s actually had a curry, a Boost, and them little sweets half pink, half white… squashies, yeah squashies.”
The astonishment didn’t end there. Lukeman went on to describe how Littler kept his composure even during the mini session ad breaks for Sky Sports. While Lukeman would head off stage for a cigarette and a drink of water to calm his nerves, Littler stayed calm, snacking on sweets.
“He even had them at half time [an ad break], while I’m having a fag, and a water,” Lukeman joked.
Class Act on the Oche
Despite the thrashing, Lukeman’s upbeat demeanour shone through. He concluded the interview with nothing but admiration and best wishes for Littler and his family, acknowledging the young star’s immense potential and graciously accepting his defeat.
“He’s absolutely awesome, and I wish him the best,” Lukeman said. “Him and his family, the best.”
Littler’s astonishing rise and laid-back approach to such a high-pressure final have left a lasting impression, marking the start of what promises to be an extraordinary career on the oche.
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