Littler Faces Backlash in Brighton, Exits Premier League Quarter-Finals

World champion Luke Littler suffered a disappointing defeat to Stephen Bunting in the Premier League quarter-finals, with his lowest televised PDC average. This loss came after a tumultuous week following his public spat with Gian van Veen. Littler was met with a hostile crowd in Brighton, which seemed to rattle him as he struggled to regain his composure. Former Premier League star Wayne Mardle attributed Littler's subpar performance to the lingering effects of his altercation with Van Veen, suggesting it was a 'knock-on' effect. Littler's early exit has given Jonny Clayton an opportunity to take the lead in the standings, after Clayton's stunning comeback victory over Michael Van Gerwen.