Luke Littler has thanked fans for their support after breaking down in tears following his recent defeat to Peter Wright in the final of the German Darts Championship.
The 17-year-old found himself 5-2 up at one stage but ended up losing 8=5 on the night.
After the defeat, Littler cut an emotional figure as he addressed the crowd.
He revealed he was emotional following the death of his friend Ellis' father, with the teenager saying: “Fair play to Peter he’s played well all weekend and so have I.
Luke Littler has thanked fans for their support after breaking down in tears following his recent defeat to Peter Wright in the final of the German Darts Championship
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"But I’ve got to take it on the chin.
“I have got to give a massive shout out to my friend Ellis.
"He lost his dad I’ve known him since I was three or four."
Littler also wrote on Instagram, insisting he wasn't looking for 'sympathy' after narrowly missing out on the title.
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"Not looking for sympathy or anything I was just trying to say how my best mate has lost his dad at such a young age," he stated.
"I've known Ellis since we was both 3, 4 and it's been on my mind all week.
"[He's] the strongest lad I know and I just couldn't get the job done as I would [have] liked."
Littler has now taken to social media once more, with the darts star thanking fans for their unwavering support.
"Just wanted to thank everyone for the messages after the other night appreciate all the support," he said.
"Wasn’t the result I wanted but peter played well all weekend so congrats to him for the win."
Fans have since flooded Littler with nice messages, with one user saying: "You’re a legend already mate. You’ve inspired more people than you know and you’ve still got many years to go. Stay winning."
A second said: "Luke Littler With that on your mind you still played some unreal darts. Yes the final didn't go your way but as you say Peter hit some form. Never easy once some 1 starts coming back at you. Your 17 and been in the hunt for trophies in most of your recent comps. Only a matter of time before that next trophy is in your hands. We all love you."
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A third said: "Smashing it Luke, what a player and professional."
Another user hailed Littler by saying: "You are to blame for getting me into watching darts at 52!!! Absolutely love watching you. Most exciting player by a mile."
And a fifth said: Keep your head up young fella. You played phenomenal, too."
Luke Littler was distraught after losing to Peter Wright in the final of the German Darts Championship over the weekend
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Littler is now set to play at the World Series of Darts.
He heads to Amsterdam as the No 1 seed for the competition after winning two World Series titles earlier this year.
The competition will commence with a first-round showdown with Ross Smith on September 13.
