Luke Littler sends fiery message at World Grand Prix in stern warning to rivals | Other | Sport

Luke Littler doubled down on his plan to be ‘more fiery’ at the World Grand Prix after reaching the second round in style. The teenage superstar went up against Gian van Veen, who was on a three-match winning streak against The Nuke heading into the contest. That quickly went up in smoke, though, with Littler producing the goods to cruise through in straight sets. 

Van Veen made a strong start and threatened to draw first blood in the opening set, but Littler battled back with some big finishes to put himself in control of the match. He turned the screw in the second and final set and was on course for a nine-darter in the very last leg. Littler was unable to achieve that goal but did more than enough to book his place in the next round of the tournament.

Speaking to Sky Sports on stage after his victory, the 18-year-old warned his rivals that he would continue to be ‘fiery’ in his pursuit of World Grand Prix glory.

“I am very happy,” said Littler. “I don’t think I could have a lot better there. I certainly played better than last year. I said I would be fiery and I showed that. I missed a few doubles starting and finishing but overall it was a good performance.

“Gian played his part in a brilliant game. We push each other every time, we play our best darts against each other. Hopefully this is my next major. First round done, on to the next one.”

Littler was not too far away from his brilliant best as he brushed Van Veen aside with ease despite the latter averaging 106. He will be hoping to maintain his prolific form as he looks to win the World Grand Prix for the very first time.

The youngster will be relieved that he was not caught out by the unique format, which requires players to start each leg by hitting a double.

Littler expressed his frustration with the rule ahead of the tournament, saying: “Obviously it’s the next big one for me, but I’ll be honest, I didn’t like it last time. I didn’t like the double start. It’s one of the toughest tournaments to win.

“There is the World Championship, the Matchplay, the Premier League. But the double start if you don’t get off, then you’re in trouble!

“I can’t say I really practice the double start often but obviously leading up to it, I think I’ll have to just to get used to it.

“Every year we’ll see someone hit a treble 20 first out and then they forget. It’ll be tough. But we’ve still got plenty of darts to play this year.”