Littler Exits Premier League Quarter-Finals in Brighton Amidst Booing

World champion Luke Littler suffered a disappointing loss to Stephen Bunting in the Premier League quarter-finals in Brighton, with his lowest PDC TV average. This defeat came a week after his highly publicized spat with Gian van Veen in Manchester. Littler was met with a hostile crowd, being booed upon entry and during the match, which seemed to affect his performance. Former Premier League star Wayne Mardle attributed Littler's subpar performance to the aftermath of his spat with Van Veen, suggesting it was a 'knock-on' effect. Bunting, who turned 41, capitalized on Littler's struggles, securing a win despite not being at his best, hitting only six of his 21 darts at a double. Littler's average of 83.94 was his lowest in a televised PDC match, and he failed to hit a single maximum. The young champion showed little reaction to the loss, exiting the stage meekly. Mardle felt Littler was flat and not his usual self, lobbing darts rather than throwing with his usual directness. Bunting expressed sympathy for Littler, acknowledging the crowd's behavior was tough on him. Three-time world champion John Part noted Littler didn't seem interested during the match, speculating on the reasons for his poor performance. Meanwhile, Jonny Clayton made a stunning comeback to beat Michael Van Gerwen, moving ahead of Littler in the table. Clayton mentioned that Littler and Van Veen practiced in separate rooms, downplaying any significance to this. The Premier League season continues, with ranking points awarded each night to determine the top four players who will progress to Finals Night at The O2 in London.