Luke Littler ramps up mind games after setting up Michael van Gerwen clash in World Darts Championship final
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Luke Littler has ramped up the mind games ahead of his showdown with Michael van Gerwen in the final of the World Darts Championship on Friday night.
The teenager had entered the tournament last month hoping to replicate the same success of a year ago, when he burst onto the scene by making the last round of the competition.
And while Littler has had to battle with being the tourmament favourite, he's now just one victory away from reaching the promised land.
The youngster beat Stephen Bunting 6-1 at Ally Pally on Thursday to set up a clash with Van Geren, who overcame Chris Dobey in his own semi-final match.
Luke Littler has ramped up the mind games ahead of his showdown with Michael van Gerwen in the final of the World Darts Championship on Friday night
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Littler has battled nerves at times throughout the World Darts Championship, with the 17-year-old crying after he overcame Ryan Meikle in the first round.
But he's now insisted he's not feeling any pressure as he prepares to lock horns with Van Gerwen for the Sid Waddell trophy.
When asked if he felt it was 'destiny' for him to become a world champion, Littler said: "It's as tough a dream as every kid, every adult, they want to pick up the trophy. But you've got to be at the top of your game to do it."
Littler was then asked if he's feeling the pressure.
"I can tell you now, I've got no pressure. I'm sure Michael will have said the same, just gotta enjoy it," he continued.
"Like tonight, I didn't get off to a quick start, winning the first set. If I do that, I'll be happy.
"If I don't, then I'll switch things up and make it right."
Van Gerwen has long been one of the best darts players on the planet, as a three-time world champion.
His stock has fallen over the past 18 months, however, at a time when both Littler and Luke Humphries, the world No 1, have hogged the spotlight.
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Luke Littler will meet Michael van Gerwen in the final of the World Darts Championship on Friday night
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Littler acknowledges that Van Gerwen has upset the odds to make the final.
And he's determined to get off a strong start against the Dutchman, especially given how he dropped the first set against Bunting on Thursday.
"I think everyone doubted Michael a lot," he said.
Luke Littler has insisted he's not feeling any pressure ahead of the World Darts Championship final
PA
"I think the limelight was just on me and Luke Humphries.
"People will say he's come through an easy draw but nothing is easy in the World Championships.
"He's been tested and I've been tested. So I'm sure we'll both test each other tomorrow."
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