LITTLER CRUSHES SULJOVIC AND FEELS UNSTOPPABLE

LUKE LITTLER says he has never felt better on the World Championship stage after delivering a near-perfect display to dismantle Mensur Suljovic.

World No1 Littler was ruthless at Ally Pally, averaging 107.09, smashing in nine 180s and landing four ton-plus checkouts in a dominant 4–0 win.

‘The Nuke’ dropped just two legs in the entire match and posted a remarkable 71 per cent checkout success rate as he cruised into the last 16.

After one of the most complete performances of his career, Littler admitted everything felt right from the moment he stepped on stage.

He said: “I’m very happy with it. The finishing was good, 71 percent, I don’t think I’ve seen that in my PDC career.

“So I am happy with that. I just felt so settled tonight. Obviously Mensur, his pace, I kind of got into a rhythm myself that matched him. I was a bit slower than usual but it worked out.

“That is the best I’ve felt. Even last year’s tournament and the one before that, this is the most I’ve felt settled.

“It goes to show with my average and the finishing, all the ton-plus checkouts.”

Littler also revealed the weight of expectation never troubled him despite defending his title.

He added: “To be honest I have not really looked back on it. I just know obviously the first game is out the way.

“Winning the second game, you’re back after Christmas. Like we do every year, we always pack enough clothes for the final.

“So we pack for six or seven days’ worth. But yeah, it’s another round out the way and I will be back in a few days.”

The 18-year-old says his mindset has evolved with experience.

He continued: “The first year it was a privilege to be here and play my darts. I got to the final. Last year it was different.

“The first game was the only one that mattered, getting past Ryan Meikle.

“This year you’re the reigning champion and world number one, the pressure is on you.

“But tonight there was absolutely no pressure and no nerves and I am happy with the result.

“Everyone wants to win 4–0. I think Mensur was finding his rhythm and flow. I just had to shut it down and go and chase him in the fourth set and win the match.”

The Warrington ace will face either Rob Cross or Damon Heta for a place in the quarter-final at the Worlds.

Image by Taylor Lanning.