One thing very, very particular is unfolding within the darts world proper now.
Teenager Luke Littler has stormed into the quarterfinals of the PDC Darts World Championships, defeating a legend of the game in a shocking upset.
In a raucous environment in London’s Alexandra Palace, the 16-year-old demolished five-time world champion Raymond van Barneveld 4 units to 1.
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Littler raced by way of the primary three units and stored his cool to shut out the match after van Barneveld received a set to get on the board.
The world youth champion nailed 9 180s and had 14 doubles at a price of fifty per cent, averaging a rating of 105 for the match.
It was a remarkably mature efficiency by Littler, who was embraced by van Barneveld in touching scenes as {the teenager} defeated his idol.
The Sky Sports activities commentator mentioned: “He’s been brushed apart. Top-of-the-line to ever play the sport, he’s been walloped.
“Unimaginable. That is out of this world by a younger man who genuinely believes he will be world champion.”
Three-time world champion John Half mentioned on Sky Sports activities: “Should you put apart the truth that he’s 16, that’s the form of efficiency that may win the event.
“An amazing efficiency. That’s the form of darts that wins titles and he’s getting awfully near reaching that. That’s his finest efficiency but.”
Littler’s fairytale run has made him a cult hero within the UK and the teen, who sports activities a powerful beard, was misplaced for phrases after his newest win.
“Unbelievable. I don’t know what to say,” he mentioned after the spherical of 16 match.
“It’s unbelievable. I went 2-0 up, 3-0 up, then I simply mentioned to my household, ‘Three legs away, one set away and I’m over the road’. I’ve finished it.”
Requested about his embrace with van Barneveld, Littler mentioned: “He mentioned, ‘You’ll be able to go all the best way. I hope you may go all the best way’. I mentioned thanks. He’s a real gentleman and I respect Raymond very nicely.”
The outcomes means Littler may also pocket 50,000 kilos (AU$93,000) in prize cash.
Within the quarterfinals Littler will subsequent face Brendon Nolan, who has defeated Gerwen Value and Gary Anderson.
“I do fancy myself. However let’s simply concentrate on Brendan,” Littler mentioned when requested if he can go all the best way.
Three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen continues to be within the combine, however defending champion Michael Smith is out of competition after he was knocked out by Chris Dobey.
Watch all of the motion from the Darts World Championships on Kayo Sports activities.
