A fired-up Luke Littler coped a celebration from Cristiano Ronaldo after taking the first set at Ally Pally against Ryan Meikle. With the scores locked at 2-2, ‘The Nuke’ took out 100 with a ‘tops tops’ finish, prompting huge roars from the crowd.
And he motioned for calm with both of his hands, in the same manner that the Portuguese icon once did in the famous Real Madrid shirt.
The 17-year-old had earler walked out to a huge ovation, but unexpectedly struggled in the early going against the world No.62.
But after finding his feet, he appeared to shout “RELAX… I’M HERE… RELAX,” in the direction of the crowd. Meikle soon levelled the match though by taking the second set, with the 17-year-old appearing to struggle for rhythym.
Ronaldo used the famous celebration at the Nou Camp back in April 2012, the season after Real at the home of arch-rivals Barcelona. this time around though, Jose Mourinho’s team were on course for the title when they again fell behind to the rivals.
The 39-year-old levelled on the half hour mark and made the gesture to home fans. The visitors went on to win 2-1, en route to securing a 32nd La Liga crown.
And like his Manchester United hero in that ‘El Classico’, Littler ended up victorious too. He took the third set before producing a staggering display in the next, reeling off 11, ten, and 11-dart legs.
The record-breaking set sealed the deal and sets up a spot in the third round, where he will meet Ian ‘Diamond’ White.
Littler pulled off the victory to roaring backing from the Ally Pally masses, but soon felt the emotions swirling over him.
When joined by Sky Sports on stage for the customary post-match interview, an amped up Littler found himself moved to tears.
After giving his first answer about the performance, Littler began to dab his eyes before the chat was cut short. The 17-year-old was quickly escorted from the stage.
Littler was then met by his mother Lisa, who pulled him into a big hug.
