Legendary darts referee Russ Bray has suggested that teenage sensation Luke Littler's success stems from being "just a kid" ahead of tonight's World Championship final against Michael van Gerwen.
The 17-year-old phenomenon will face the three-time world champion at Alexandra Palace, having demolished Stephen Bunting 6-1 in yesterday's semi-final.
Bray believes that Littler's youth actually works in his favour, freeing him from the everyday pressures that can affect adult players.
"We forget the fact he is just a kid. He plays on his Xbox or whatever he does," Bray told GB News.
PA / GB NEWS
"I think a lot of the pressure is taken away. He doesn't have other pressures you get as an adult like when you get married, running your car, running your home," he added.
The veteran referee explained that this freedom from adult responsibilities allows Littler to "sort of release it a bit" when it comes to competitive pressure.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Luke Littler is the favourite to win the World Darts ChampionshipReutersLittler has been in dominant form throughout the tournament, hitting a tournament-high 64 180s and maintaining the highest three-dart average of 102.13.
His path to the final included a record-breaking performance against Ryan Meikle in the opening round and a hard-fought victory over Ryan Joyce.
The teenager dismantled Nathan Aspinall in the quarter-finals before his commanding semi-final display against Bunting.
Van Gerwen has made serene progress through his side of the draw, culminating in a 6-1 victory over Chris Dobey in the semi-finals.
Littler himself appears to echo Bray's assessment, insisting he feels no pressure ahead of the final.
"I can tell you now, I've got no pressure. I'm sure Michael will have said the same, just gotta enjoy it," the teenager said.
Despite the immense spotlight, Littler has remained focused on his game, acknowledging the scale of the challenge ahead.
"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," he added.
Despite initial concerns about how Littler would handle the intense spotlight, Bray has been thoroughly impressed by the teenager's composure.
"I have to be honest, when I saw the amount of publicity and pressure, I wasn't sure if he would crack, but he has been amazing," said the veteran referee.
"The kid has been amazing, he has been phenomenal. A one off," Bray concluded, underlining the unique nature of Littler's achievements at such a young age.
