Luke Littler: “I just want to get the job done” – Champion reflects on dominant World Darts Championship display

Reigning champion Luke Littler continued his relentless march through the World Darts Championship with another commanding performance, sweeping aside Krzysztof Ratajski to book his place in the semi-finals at Alexandra Palace.

After the match, Littler spoke openly about his form, preparation, mindset and growing influence on the sport, offering a revealing insight into how he is handling both expectations and the spotlight as the tournament reaches its decisive stages.

“Most importantly, I got the job done”

Despite the emphatic scoreline, Littler admitted the performance did not feel as comfortable as it appeared from the outside. A lack of practice in recent days forced the teenager to make subtle adjustments on the fly, but the result was never in doubt.

“Very happy to get through. I’ve not really been practising for nearly two or three days, and I’ve been trying to change my throw here, there and everywhere, but the most important thing is that I got the job done.”

The world number one explained that circumstances away from the venue had limited his preparation, but he was quick to stress that he thrives on regular match play rather than extended practice sessions.

“I’m a player who just wants to play day after day. Obviously we’re back again tomorrow, so hopefully I can play a bit better.”

A big finish at the right moment

One of the standout moments of the match came early, when Littler pinned a trademark 170 checkout to seize control of the opening set. It was another reminder of his confidence on the biggest stages and his knack for delivering when momentum matters.

“The first set is always ropey, no matter who you’re playing. To go one up in set play is massive, and the 170 was a sweet finish. It gave me a lot of confidence going forward.”

Although he narrowly missed out on a nine-dart finish later in the match, Littler remained relaxed about it, viewing it as a target rather than a frustration.

“The only thing missing was the nine. It was the first time I’ve gone back-to-back in this tournament and not hit it, but we can always try again tomorrow.”

On form, averages and expectations

Statistically, Littler’s tournament continues to impress, with multiple 100-plus averages and a growing tally of maximums. Interestingly, he admitted he was surprised by how strong the numbers were when informed mid-match.

“I asked backstage what I was averaging and they said 101. I honestly didn’t think it was anywhere near that. It didn’t feel that good at all, but that just shows where the level is.”

That ability to produce elite numbers without feeling at his best has become one of the defining traits of his title defence.

Crowd reaction and mental growth

Following earlier discussion around crowd reactions in previous matches, Littler said he felt fully supported on stage this time and believes those experiences have helped him mature as a competitor.

“As soon as I got on stage, the crowd were unbelievable. I clapped everyone just so they knew I wanted them on my side again, and they were with me tonight.”

When asked whether crowd dynamics affect his performance, he was clear that it is something he has learned to manage.

“I don’t think it impacts me now. I’m growing mentally as a player. The Rob Cross game definitely tested me, but getting through that showed me I can deal with it.”

Looking ahead to the semi-finals

Attention now turns to a semi-final clash with Ryan Searle, one of the form players of the tournament. Littler is well aware of the challenge but remains focused on his own approach.

“He’s playing well and he’s yet to drop a set. He’s in my way and I’m in his way, so hopefully we can have another good game. I always want to go one up, so hopefully that’s the first set he drops.”

With the format extending and records still within reach, Littler is embracing what lies ahead rather than looking too far into the future.

“There’s an extra set tomorrow, first to six, so there’s plenty of chances. I just want to play well and get the job done.”

Follow all the action at this year’s World Darts Championship here