World Darts Championship final interrupted as Ally Pally wasp returns | Other | Sport

In a comical turn of events, the crowd began chanting: «Nananananananananna, Ally Pally Wasp, Pally Wasp, Ally Pally Wasp,» to the melody of KC and The Sunshine Band’s Give It Up. The wasp appeared to be the only obstacle for Littler, who bounced back from losing the first set to establish a dominant lead.

The reigning champion is aiming to secure consecutive world titles following his historic victory in 2025. If he achieves it, he will be the first person to do so since Gary Anderson 10 years ago. Having lost to Luke Humphries in his first World Championship final the previous year, Littler returned to thrash Michael van Gerwen 7-3.

Littler has swiftly risen to world number one and is dominating in a way only greats of the sport, Phil Taylor and Michael van Gerwen, have managed previously.

«Obviously in their primes, they were just absolutely unbelievable. I was watching it as a kid,» Littler said, before Saturday’s final.

«With what I’ve done, I can near enough say I’m playing just as well, with the titles, the averages, the amount of nine-darters on TV. Maybe if I get [another title on Saturday], then I might be on [the] same level.»

Heaping praise on Littler before the final, former PDC professional Matt Edgar told BBC Radio 5 Live: «He just makes it look easy.

«[He has reached] three World Championship finals out of three World Championship appearances – and the danger is he’s getting better. It looks like he’s getting through these games with ease, he’s brushing seasoned professionals aside.

«Ryan Searle has been playing fantastic but Luke Littler is just on a different level.»