Why did the crowd turn against Luke Littler at Alexandra Palace?

The crowd's sentiment shifted as Littler became a dominant figure, with some suggesting a fickle crowd turned against him due to his success.

How did Luke Littler react to the booing crowd?

Littler responded defiantly, screaming 'NOW WHAT?' at the audience and stating their boos were contributing to his prize money.

What was Luke Littler's performance average against Rob Cross?

Despite the hostile reception, Luke Littler averaged an impressive 107 during his match against Rob Cross.

Home / Sports / Littler Roars Back: Crowd Boos Fuel Champion's Fire

Littler Roars Back: Crowd Boos Fuel Champion's Fire

30 Dec, 2025

•

Summary

Luke Littler, 18, faced a hostile crowd jeering him at Alexandra Palace.
He responded to the jeers by screaming 'NOW WHAT?' at the booing audience.
Littler's remarkable performance averaged 107 despite intense crowd pressure.

Littler Roars Back: Crowd Boos Fuel Champion's Fire

At Alexandra Palace, 18-year-old Luke Littler experienced a dramatic shift in crowd sentiment, now facing jeers from an audience that once cheered his rise. Despite the hostile atmosphere, where fans booed his misses and chanted for other players, Littler emerged victorious against Rob Cross with a 4-2 scoreline.

Littler's response to the booing was defiant, shouting "NOW WHAT?" at the crowd and thanking them for his prize money. This modern sporting hero, likened to Jude Bellingham and Tyson Fury, has transformed from a reserved prodigy into a player unbothered by public opinion, where adulation and contempt are merely metrics.

Despite the crowd's fickle nature, Littler delivered a stellar performance, averaging 107. His ability to overcome adversity, particularly a crucial 10-dart break of throw, suggests that being pushed to his limits may unlock new levels of his game. Littler is expected to progress through the upcoming quarter-finals and semi-finals.