Luke Littler gives reason for storming off stage after tense Gerwyn Price moment | Other | Sport

Luke Littler revealed why he stormed off stage following a tense moment with Gerwyn Price during the pair’s Premier League play-off clash at the London O2 Arena. Littler and Price were facing off in the semi-final, with the reigning Premier League champion coming from behind to book his spot in back-to-back Premier League finals. 

The teen didn’t have it all his own way though, with Price coming out of the starting blocks strong, taking a 6-4 lead into the mid-match interval. Littler was able to rally after the pause, breaking Price three times and eventually taking the match by virtue of a 10-7 victory. 

Littler told Sky Sports: “As soon as Gez hit the double five to go 6-4 up, I went off stage, I needed to get up for it. First five or six legs I was nervous, so going into the break [after 10 legs] 6-4 down, it’s not what I wanted. But I knew myself I love coming on after a break. I just relaxed myself and got the job done.”

When quizzed on how he focused during the break, Littler added: “I stormed off stage as soon as Gez went 6-4 up but that was in my own head. I sat down, had a drink and cooled myself down. I said to myself, ‘You know you can do it, you love to come on after the break’.” 

Quizzed on the tension during his clash with Price, Littler continued: “I’ll admit it, I was very nervous, the first five or six legs. This crowd, unbelievable, they got me over the line. I just know myself, I can relax now, watch the first 10 legs of the other semi-final and when they go for a break, I’ll get myself back on the practice board.” 

Despite his shakiness, Littler still delivered plenty of high-quality moments, including a stunning 128 checkout. The 2025 world champion also hit more 180s than his opponent and posted a handy three-dart average of 104. 

Reacting to Littler’s performance, pundit Wayne Mardle said: “It felt massive [the arena], this is gigantic. It’s meaningful, it’s a massive night… he was nervous, because of one reason, he cares, he wants it.”

Littler won his first-ever Premier League title during his debut campaign last year, with the Nuke improving his league phase standing this time around, topping the table with room to spare in the regular season. He’ll come up against familiar foe Luke Humphries in the final, which is a rematch of the 2024 showpiece.