Luke Littler faced a surprise elimination from the initial round of the World Grand Prix Darts tournament as he was defeated 2-1 by Rob Cross. The 17-year-old had been the favourite to win in Leicester, but his debut ended in disappointment, just like his previous major tournament where he was eliminated by Michael van Gerwen (10-6) in July.
Littler could barely watch as Cross clinched the victory with a bullseye shot. Despite hitting four 180s in the first set, Littler struggled with his doubles and was on the back foot throughout the match. After being knocked out of the World Grand Prix Darts first round, Littler expressed his disappointment in his X post.
Cross, who won the 2018 World Championship on his debut, will now face Martin Schindler from Germany in the second round on Wednesday. According to Cross, Littler has had an exceptional year and will surely make a comeback.
Meanwhile, reigning champion Luke Humphries also advanced to the next round after a tough match against Masters champion Stephen Bunting. Humphries, who was down by a set and two legs, managed to make a comeback and win 2-1.
