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, prompting speculation about the impact of his recent spat with Gian van Veen. Littler, who recorded his lowest PDC TV average, was booed by the crowd in Brighton and struggled to recover from a poor start. Former Premier League star Wayne Mardle believes Littler's exit was a 'knock-on' effect from the incident with Van Veen. Meanwhile, Jonny Clayton staged a stunning comeback to beat Michael Van Gerwen and move three points ahead of Littler in the table.