Fresh from his World Matchplay triumph in Blackpool, the unstoppable Luke Littler is ready to take his domination to the global stage as he targets glory at the Australian Darts Masters this weekend.
The teenage superstar, who was a runner-up at this very event last year, has arrived in Wollongong with a renewed sense of purpose and a palpable air of confidence.
Littler, whose World Matchplay win in July completed a remarkable "Triple Crown" of major PDC titles, is clearly riding a wave of momentum.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, he reflected on his recent success and how it has prepared him for the challenge Down Under. “I got tested in Blackpool and I definitely made a good 10 days of it,” he said.
“Happy to come out with the win and claim the Triple Crown but now we’re Down Under, it’s a different competition and a different mindset.”
However, his motivation for this event runs deeper than just his recent form.
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The memory of his 2024 final defeat to Gerwyn Price in Wollongong is still a strong driving force. “Once you are runner-up you want to come back the next year and win it.
"It’s a long time but now we are here and coming off the back of the Matchplay win, I am feeling very confident and up for the task.”
The atmosphere in Wollongong is expected to be electric, and Littler is eager to embrace it. “I’ve been here a few days now, so I’ve settled in but once Friday night comes, we’re in the venue and the crowd are pumping, it will definitely get me up for it.”
Littler will open his campaign against New Zealand's Haupai Puha, as he begins his quest to convert last year's runner-up spot into a victory.
The race for world darts supremacy continues, and "The Nuke" is primed for his latest challenge.
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