Here’s a rewritten version in a polished sports-news style:
Luke Littler’s critics have been branded “idiots” after the teenage darts sensation was left in tears following his Premier League triumph.
Sky Sports commentator Stuart Pyke launched a passionate defence of the world No.1 after Littler became emotional in the aftermath of his dramatic Premier League title victory at London’s O2 Arena.
The 19-year-old secured his second Premier League crown in just three seasons by edging out Luke Humphries 11-10 in one of the most memorable finals in the competition’s history.
However, what should have been a moment of pure celebration quickly turned emotional when Littler broke down during his post-match interview while reflecting on the abuse he had faced throughout the 17-week tournament.
The Warrington star later revealed he had even considered walking away from the sport after being subjected to boos and heckling at venues including Brighton, Rotterdam, Liverpool, Aberdeen and Leeds.
Pyke admitted the treatment of Littler had angered him and said those responsible should be embarrassed by their actions.
Speaking on the Love The Darts Podcast, he said: “It made me really angry on Luke’s behalf.
“Sometimes you see things and they stay with you for a long time. The people responsible for the abuse and heckling should be absolutely ashamed of themselves.
“At the end of the day, he’s only 19 years old. Yes, he’s made a couple of mistakes on stage. So what?
“It’s become a herd mentality. One crowd starts it and suddenly the next crowd thinks it’s clever to join in.
“But it’s not clever. It’s unfair, it’s cruel and it’s directed at a young man who has come into the sport with extraordinary talent and changed darts forever.
“Just let him be. Enjoy what he’s doing. Enjoy the incredible standard he’s bringing to the game.”
Pyke also questioned why fans would target one of the sport’s biggest attractions.
“More than 160,000 people bought tickets for the Premier League this year and a huge number of them came to watch Luke Littler.
“So what on earth are they doing?”
Despite the criticism and pressure, Littler continues to dominate the sport.
The reigning world champion has already won the World Masters, UK Open and Premier League titles this season, adding to his second PDC World Championship crown and taking his prize-money earnings for the year beyond £1.6 million.
Littler’s attention now turns to the Nordic Masters, where he returns to action on Friday against Cor Dekker as he looks to continue another remarkable campaign.
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