Jan Thoden/PDC Europe

'Can become an Eric Bristow or Ronnie O'Sullivan': Rob Cross says Luke Littler should keep on-stage antics

Originally posted on Dartsnews.com | Last updated May 27, 2025 11:57 AM ET

Rob Cross, 2018 world champion, is full of praise for the striking presentation of teenage sensation Luke Littler. According to Cross, Littler should keep his characteristic stage presence above all else.

The newly 18-year-old Littler, known for his distinct facial expressions and interaction with the audience, recently caused a stir in Leeds by making "yawn" and "cry baby" gestures to fans who chided him. He constantly responds to the audience, managing to stir up the atmosphere well.

Cross responded, “Luke gets a bit of a backlash sometimes from fans about his antics."

“But I think everyone should lay-off him and let him get on with it. I reckon he can become an Eric Bristow or Ronnie O’Sullivan character of the sport. He doesn’t take any nonsense and he loves the banter.

Personality

The former world champion emphasizes the importance of players with outspoken personalities in the sport: “Just let him be himself. We need that sort of stuff in sport, it gets people wound-up and makes for better atmospheres.

“I love the fact he’s got a bit of a swagger about him. The boy isn’t arrogant, he just enjoys the fun of it all. He takes it all in his stride.

“People shouldn’t try to stop him. It gets people talking and it always makes me laugh to be honest.

Cross laughs as he talks about how Littler is just quiet in the rehearsal room: “He’s quiet in the practice room. But put him on that stage and he comes alive. He’s done amazing to deal with the media and spotlight over the past 18 months."

A particularly important day is coming up for Littler next Thursday. He will then take on Gerwyn Price in the semifinals of the Premier League Darts playoffs. The winner of that game will meet the winner of the other semifinal between Luke Humphries and Nathan Aspinall later in the evening. A packed 02 Arena is the setting for this breathtaking apotheosis of Premier League Darts, where Littler hopes to succeed himself as overall winner.