Luke Littler has shed light on the emotional gesture that followed his dramatic comeback victory at the 2025 World Matchplay, offering a glimpse into his mindset after a chaotic match. The 18-year-old world champion secured a 13-11 win over Jermaine Wattimena in a tie-break on July 23, 2025, at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens, overcoming a 7-2 deficit to advance to the quarter-finals. After hitting the decisive double 20, Littler passionately celebrated by pointing to a star on his shirt—a symbol of his world title—and directed his emotions toward his family and friends in the crowd, a moment that left fans intrigued.
Speaking post-match, Littler explained the gesture, stating, “I’m world champion for a reason, and I always find these gears when I need it.” He tied the intensity of the moment to his first-round World Championship win over Ryan Meikle, where he also fought back from a slow start, saying, “I’ll be honest, I’ve not felt pressure like that since the first round of the World Championship.” The gesture, he added, was a personal affirmation and a nod to his supporters, reflecting his resilience under pressure. Littler also expressed gratitude for the crowd, calling them “unbelievable,” which fueled his emotional outpouring.
The comeback showcased Littler’s ability to shift gears, winning six straight legs to take an 8-7 lead before navigating a tense finish. His celebration underscored a mix of relief and pride, with the star-pointing act serving as a reminder of his January 2025 triumph over Michael van Gerwen. As he prepares to face Andrew Gilding in the quarter-finals on July 25, Littler’s explanation highlights his growing maturity and emotional connection to his achievements, turning a chaotic match into a defining moment.
