Luke Littler smoothly progressed into the semi-finals of the PDC World Darts Championship, triumphing over Brendan Dolan 5-1 and securing a minimum prize of £100,000.
At just 16 years old, Littler has become a sensation extending far beyond the realm of darts, a trend showing no signs of slowing down as he prepares to face the No 8 seed, Rob Cross, for a chance at the title.
Dubbed "The Nuke," he maintained an average of 101.93 and a 47% success rate on checkouts, capitalising on Dolan's below-par performance to effortlessly secure a spot in the final four.
Both players commenced nervously, with Dolan claiming victory in the first two legs, including a 101 checkout against Littler's throw. However, the 16-year-old rallied back, clinching three consecutive legs and maintaining control from that point onward.
In the subsequent set, he showcased an impressive average of 121.86, eventually requiring a 111 checkout to recover from a 2-1 deficit in the third set, ultimately claiming it with a score of 301.
Following an easy win in the fourth set, he stumbled in the fifth, marked by a series of missed darts at double. Nevertheless, he reasserted his dominance, claiming the sixth set effortlessly, highlighted by a 140 checkout in the first leg after a 164 visit.
Throughout the game, Littler frequently attempted to conceal a broad grin, seemingly unable to fathom the manner in which either his or Dolan's darts were landing.
Critics may accuse the young prodigy of arrogance, but it's challenging to blame him when luck and talent seem undeniably in his favour.
He recently mentioned that he can't recall the last time he lost a darts match. While he holds the title of reigning world youth champion and has seen success in the professional Modus Super Series, his triumph in the World Championship remains remarkably extraordinary.
Next, Littler will confront Cross in the semi-final, who staged a remarkable comeback from 4-0 down against Chris Dobey, securing a 5-4 victory in one of Alexandra Palace's greatest comebacks. Cross maintained an average of 100.7 with an impressive checkout percentage of 57.1.
A potential final awaits with three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen, although the Dutchman must first overcome Scott Williams and either Luke Humphries or Dave Chisnall.
Littler has already confessed that his knowledge of Pele comes solely through FIFA, in contrast to his familiarity with Tiger Woods, Wayne Rooney, and Ronnie O'Sullivan, further solidifying his legendary status even before reaching adulthood.
Luck seems to be favouring him in this tournament, having encountered a relatively favourable route to the final without facing any player in the world's top 20 until now.
However, with an average exceeding 100 throughout the tournament, his performance is formidable enough to challenge anyone. Whether he can maintain this level of play remains to be seen.