Luke Littler explains gesture during emotional celebration following comeback win at World Matchplay Darts
LUKE LITTLER explained his celebratory gesture after his comeback win at the World Matchplay Darts.
The Nuke battled back from 7-2 down to beat Jermaine Wattimena 13-11 in a thrilling tiebreaker last night.
Littler was having a nightmare in the opening stages, missing ten throws at the double and he was on the brink of a second round exit.
But the 18-year-old finally brought his unstoppable best to the oche when needed and he celebrated wildly after landing his fifth match dart.
Littler shouted “come on” when securing his spot in the quarter-final with passion and relief etched on his face.
He then pointed to the bottom of his shirt and flexed it towards fans.
Littler has a badge stitched on there that features his name, the England flag and a single star for the one world title he has won.
Asked about the meaning behind the gesture, Littler revealed: “When I won I pointed to the star on my shirt.
“I’m a world champion for a reason. I find these gears when I need it.”
Littler added: “I’ve not felt pressure like that since the first round of the World Championship against Ryan Meikle.
BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK
“Jermaine kept putting me under pressure. He was always right behind me, but when I got into the lead I was determined not to let it slip away.”
Littler faces Andrew Gilding in the quarter-final on Friday and the winner will play either Josh Rock or Gerwyn Price.
On the other side of the draw, it is Gian van Veen vs James Wade
and Stephen Bunting vs Jonny Clayton tonight.