Mark Webster acknowledges Luke Littler’s “puzzling display,” but he is not too alarmed in advance of the quarterfinals.
Mark Webster Addresses Luke Littler’s “Puzzling Display” at Nordic Darts Masters 2025
Sky Sports pundit Mark Webster described Luke Littler’s 6-2 first-round win over Viktor Tingstrom at the 2025 Nordic Darts Masters in Copenhagen on June 6 as a “puzzling display,” but remained unconcerned about the 18-year-old’s prospects ahead of his quarter-final clash with Nathan Aspinall on June 7. Speaking on Sky Sports, Webster noted Littler’s uncharacteristically slow start, where he trailed 2-1 with a 92.7 average, missing early doubles against the world No. 147 Tingstrom, per PDC.tv. “It was a bit puzzling to see Luke so off-pace early on. He wasn’t his usual self,” Webster said, per Express.co.uk, pointing to Littler’s struggle to find rhythm amidst crowd distractions, including objects thrown at him, as reported by Daily Star.
Despite the shaky performance, Littler rallied, hitting a 124 checkout (T20, T14, D11), four 180s, and finishing with a 102.3 average, per Sofascore.com. Webster emphasized Littler’s resilience, stating, “He dug deep and showed why he’s a champion. I’m not alarmed at all—he’s got the tools to go far.” Littler’s 2024/25 season, with 10 titles including the PDC World Championship and a record 140.91 set average, supports Webster’s confidence, per BBC Sport. Facing Aspinall, who Littler defeated 6-3 in the 2025 UK Open quarter-finals, Webster predicted a tougher test but backed Littler’s firepower, per Sky Sports.
Posts on X, like @DartsCentral, echoed Webster’s view, noting Littler’s ability to “flip the switch” despite early wobbles. Webster’s lack of alarm contrasts with fan criticism on X, such as @DartsNews02’s “Littler completely off his game,” highlighting the high expectations surrounding the world No. 2. As Littler aims for the £30,000 top prize, Webster’s analysis suggests the teenager’s puzzling start is a minor hiccup in his pursuit of a third World Series title.
