Luke Littler makes feelings clear as Rob Cross rubs salt into wounds following World Grand Prix defeat

Yet Littler was beaten 2-1 by his experienced opponent, with Cross impressing as he got the job done.

Littler has now reacted to his shock exit on social media.

And the teenager has insisted he enjoyed the occasion, despite the disappointing result, while also showing class by congratulating Cross on his victory.

"Debut didn't go to plan as I would of liked but overall I enjoyed my performance," said the youngster.

"Fair play to Rob, week off now and back to it in Wigan for PC 27/28."

As for Cross, the veteran was delighted after booking his place in the next round of the competition.

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Debut didn't go to plan as I would of liked but overall I enjoyed my performance. Fair play to Rob, week off now and back to it in Wigan for PC 27/28🎯 pic.twitter.com/H9ElJb8Qz4

— Luke Littler (@LukeTheNuke180) October 7, 2024

Yet he has rubbed salt into Littler's wounds by saying he wasn't too 'bothered' when he found out he'd be facing the prodigy.

"I don't want to be rude to him because I think he's phenomenal. But I wasn't too bothered," he said when asked if he'd been worried.

"If anything, I'd rather it had been a straight format (rather than double start) because at least I could offer a little bit more. All about me, really.

"I didn't know which version of me was going to turn up. Based on the last few years it might not have been a good version.

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"I enjoyed it a little bit more towards the end and hit my checkouts.

"Hopefully that stays for the rest of the week."

Cross also believes the result will boost his confidence as he looks to secure glory, too.

He continued: "My record in this tournament isn't great, so I'm delighted to get over that winning line.

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"I struggled in the first set, but then I started to find my rhythm and I felt very solid on my own throw, which gives me confidence for the next few days."

Meanwhile, Luke Humphries managed to beat Stephen Bunting via a pulsating comeback.

The 29-year-old was subjected to chants about his beloved Leeds United throughout the clash.

And Humphries, speaking to SportsBoom, has now urged fans to stop singing about the Championship side.

“Let’s leave football at home, we’re at the darts now,” Humphries told SportsBoom.

“I support Leeds [United], everyone knows that, but let's leave the football chants at home.

"We are darts players, we're not footballers.

“If I'm in a football field and Leeds are playing against whoever and they're chanting it to me whilst I’m there, then I'll accept it, love it, and embrace it. But it's just constant."