Luke Littler lit up Madison Square Garden on Friday night as the teenage darts sensation made a dream US debut with a victory in just nine minutes.
The 17-year-old from Warrington, who has become the poster boy of the sport after an incredible few months, destroyed poor Matt Campbell in front of a raucous crowd in New York.
Littler needed just nine minutes and 52 seconds to win the first round match of the US Darts Masters, in his first competition on American soil.
‘I feel like everything went well. “I’m not too sure about the stats, but I felt good and I couldn’t wait to be there tonight… I can’t wait to play again tomorrow.”
In the US Darts Masters, eight of the best players in the world face eight North American rivals. Some of Littler’s rivals came very close and former world champion Michael Smith was defeated 6-1 by Jeff Smith.
Luke Littler was mobbed by fans in New York when he made his US debut on Friday.
Littler received a raucous reception from his fans at the iconic Madison Square Garden.
But the teenager shut out Campbell in the penultimate game of the night.
He will return to the iconic stadium on Saturday night hoping to lift another trophy in this incredible debut season.
‘Obviously it would mean a lot: the number of athletes who have performed here. I have won a match now and I hope I can go further tomorrow,” he said.
“I have joined the list of winners of a match but I would like to go further and lift the trophy.”
The teenager received a standing ovation when he entered the Madison Square Garden theater. Fans of all ages mobbed him to take selfies and sign.
One held a sign that said: “Walking through a little wonderland.” And then Littler reflected on the attention she has received in the United States.
The 17-year-old teen sensation beat Matt Campbell 6-0 in less than 10 minutes.
Littler greets fans, one of whom held a sign that read “Walking in Littler’s Wonderland.”
“It’s been crazy, but it’s also a good thing because darts is becoming more recognizable outside the UK and in different countries,” he said.
Littler smiled as he soaked up the applause on his way to the stage, where he spread his arms and led the crowd in a performance of a new song.
The teenager chose entrance music from WWE star Cody Rhodes, who is among the American celebrities who have sent him messages of support since his arrival in New York.
“Obviously Americans love their wrestling, it’s where it’s based, and Cody gave me a message yesterday, so I thought I’d use his walk-on,” he revealed.
