Emma Raducanu has said she would love to meet and chat with sensation Luke Littler about his achievements so far, adding that ‘nothing can prepare’ young sportsmen for the spotlight coming their way.
Speaking to the media ahead of her Australian Open first round match against Katerina Alexandrova on Tuesday, the 22-year-old Radukanu admitted she wants to entrust the key to her success to Littler. We saw her win the 2021 US Open at the age of 18.
Littler, still just 17, became the youngest winner in the history of the World Darts Championships earlier this month, beating three-time champion Michael van Gerwen 7-3 in the final.
“It’s incredible respect for him,” Raducanu said. “It was a big time (I’m interested in meeting Littler). I want to meet the best athletes and the best individuals who are successful in their fields.
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Highlights from Littler against Michael van Gerwen in the World Darts Championship final
“Because darts is such a precision sport, I would love to hear what he had to say about it, and how he stays focused is very keen and interesting, because you can get close but not necessarily execute the final shot. “In that sense, it’s quite similar to tennis.”
Following Raducanu’s stunning Grand Slam success, she has faced her fair share of struggles due to injuries, form and the spotlight, and has revealed some advice to Littler about the overwhelming attention they have both experienced.
Current UK no. 2 added that there is a special focus on social media comments. Raducanu says young stars need to “desensitize” themselves in order to move forward productively.
“There’s not a lot of preparation for that. I feel like I’m constantly on edge because (photographers) are following me around,” Raducanu said.
Radukanu has struggled with injuries, form and the spotlight since winning the 2021 US Open.
“But I think the biggest part is the judgment and opinion of every decision you make.
“For me it was really difficult to deal with and desensitize myself and understand that it depends on the territory you are in.
“But trying to stay away from that and continue on my own path was probably the biggest adjustment for me.”
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Emma Paton, Mark Webster and Richard Ashdown discuss whether Littler can break Phil Taylor’s record of 16 World Darts Championship titles.
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