Luke Littler delivered a stunning response to his critics, transforming a mixed reception into roaring approval with a devastating 5-0 quarter-final victory over Krzysztof Ratajski at the PDC World Darts Championship on Thursday night.
From Boos to Cheers: A Crowd Won Over
Just two days after being booed during his win against Rob Cross, and making pointed comments about his detractors, the reigning world champion entered the Alexandra Palace stage to a divided crowd. Any lingering tension evaporated within 33 minutes of a brutal and nonchalant exhibition of darting prowess. Littler reeled in the Polish world number 37 with a performance that quickly won the entire auditorium back to his side.
"Few boos here and there," Littler admitted afterwards. "But as soon as I got on stage, the crowd were absolutely unbelievable. I clapped everyone, just so they knew I wanted them on my side again, and they were tonight." The victory, sealed with a 5-0 whitewash, books his place in Friday's semi-final against Ryan Searle.
A One-Sided Masterclass Despite Inner Doubts
The scoreline suggested total dominance, but Littler revealed he was battling himself early on. "When I was 2-0 up I didn't feel good," he said. "It didn't feel comfortable, I was changing where I was holding my dart. Just not practising for two days, being a bit lazy."
This admission makes his statistics even more remarkable. He averaged 100, hit 15 of his 27 attempts at doubles, and won 15 legs to Ratajski's five. The match was effectively decided in the opening set, which Littler clinched with a spectacular 170 checkout. From there, it was a procession of high scores, including a breathtaking 128 finish on the bull and a run of six perfect darts in the third set.
Ratajski, who has enjoyed a resurgent tournament after life-saving brain surgery, was sadly outmatched, converting only 23% of his chances at doubles. A missed double-8 to reduce the deficit to 3-1 was as close as he came to genuine hope.
Searle Awaits as Van Veen Causes Major Upset
Littler now faces Ryan 'Heavy Metal' Searle, a player he has beaten in all five of their previous meetings. However, Searle is in the form of his life, having swept aside Jonny Clayton 5-2 earlier on Thursday. "If Ryan does test me I'm up for it," Littler stated, acknowledging his next opponent's elevated level.
The other semi-final will be a clash of styles after a seismic shock in the evening's final match. Dutch sensation Gian van Veen produced a performance of immense quality to destroy former world champion and world number two Luke Humphries 5-1. Averaging 105.4 and hitting 55% of his doubles, Van Veen's victory guarantees him a Premier League spot next year and sets up a last-four encounter with the experienced Gary Anderson.
Littler's path to a potential second consecutive title has yet to see him face a seed in the top 16. Whether this matters will be determined on Friday night, as he aims to continue his imperious defence under the Ally Pally lights.
