Luke Littler stormed to victory in the World Masters first round, dispatching Belgian qualifier Andy Baetens in a swift 3-0 win that took just 10 minutes and 45 seconds.
The 18-year-old world champion delivered a masterclass in Milton Keynes, posting an impressive 104.33 average.
Littler’s clinical performance saw him convert six out of nine checkout attempts in the three-set whitewash, setting up a second-round clash with James Wade.
However, the match was marred by disruptive whistling from the crowd, forcing referee Kirk Bevins to intervene.
Referee Kirk Bevins had to intervene after Luke Littler was whistled at
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As the final leg approached, Bevins had to address the audience directly, demanding: “Stop whistling, thank you.”
ITV commentator John Rawling expressed his frustration with the disruption, asking: “What sort of a moron comes along to a big darts event and starts whistling?”
The issue had previously surfaced at last weekend’s World Series event in Den Bosch.
Littler remained unfazed by the crowd’s behaviour, stating: “I think it was just the fans doing it to themselves and getting other people to join in.
“It wasn’t aimed at us players. I just had to get on with it and get that win.”
The teenage sensation reflected on his recent success: “I’ve been obviously reflecting at home and I’ve had some down time. I’ve had a few days to reflect each week.”
“It has not sunk in yet being the world champion. I know it should,” he added.
Wade awaits Littler in Saturday’s second-round match, with the veteran player dismissing doubts about his abilities despite dropping out of the world’s top 10.
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Luke Littler had to contend with a hostile crowd at the World Masters
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“I still think it’s laughable that people don’t think I can win things,” Wade said. “I still think I’ll win TV majors and I don’t see any reason why not.”
Wade added: “I don’t believe anyone’s amazing apart from probably the Luke and the Luke [Littler and Humphries].
“Obviously Luke is doing amazingly well, but it’ll be what it’ll be.”