Luke Littler has shared his gratitude to darts fans for their support at the PDC World Championship, despite a tense encounter at Alexandra Palace where he verbally retaliated against heckling spectators. 'The Nuke' triumphed over Gian van Veen 7-1 to retain his esteemed title on Saturday evening, becoming the first player to win consecutive titles at the worlds since Gary Anderson did so 10 years ago.

However, Littler's journey to victory was not without its challenges. After defeating Darius Labanauskus, David Davies and Mensur Suljovic in the preliminary rounds, the 18 year old - who will turn 19 later this month - was met with a chilly reception as he approached the oche to compete against Rob Cross for a spot in the quarter-finals. Despite the initial chants of "walking in a Littler wonderland," the crowd inside Ally Pally began to rally behind 'Voltage' as Littler responded to jeers and boos.

Emotions were high as Littler secured a 4-2 victory, telling fans afterwards: "I'm not bothered...Really, I'm not bothered. I'm really not bothered. Can I just say one thing? You guys pay for tickets [and so] you're paying for my prize money, thank you, thank you for my money. Thank you for booing me. Thank you."

Following his remarks, Littler faced significant criticism from fellow professionals - with James Hubbard urging him to "behave like" a World No. 1. Yet it seems Littler has reversed his earlier stance during the competition, posting on social media to express gratitude to supporters after securing his second World Championship title on Saturday evening.

Writing on Instagram, Littler said: "Hi everyone. Wow, thanks for all your support from the very first game of this World Championship, and we've done it. Without your support, I couldn't have gone back-to-back world champion and add my name to that very short list.

"Thank you to everyone on all social platforms, it means a lot to me. And yeah, we go again soon and thanks for all your support. Have a good New Year."

Meanwhile, Littler was inundated with messages of support from friends, family, sporting contemporaries and public figures - with congratulatory posts appearing in his account's stories section. Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn wrote: "Back to back World Championships, £1m first prize but more importantly true greatness! 18-years-old."

Social media personality KSI also commented: "Congrats bro. BACK TO BACK BABY," whilst The United Strand quipped: "Well done mate! @lukethenukelittler. Not cutting my hair until Luke Littler wins 5 World Championships in a row!"

Following his triumphant performance under the dazzling lights of Alexandra Palace on Saturday, Littler expressed his delight: "It feels amazing. First of all, I've got to say thank you to (Master of Ceremonies) John McDonald and (referee) George Noble - what fantastic careers they have had.

"Everyone knows what happened with Anthony Joshua and his team, rest in peace to his friends, just like AJ said... the first time was so nice, I had to do it twice.

"I wasn't happy going into the break 1-0 down, but I had to kick on from there. I said just give it time, you'll find it. It all came to plan. Gian, what a tournament, he can be very happy for himself."

Whilst Littler secured an eye-watering £1million prize for claiming the PDC World Championship title, the teenager faces a substantial tax obligation on his earnings. Tax specialist Nicole Zalys, founder of The London Accountant, suggests he'll be liable for the highest rate of 45 per cent due to considerable income already accumulated in 2025. Consequently, he could face a tax bill of approximately £450,000 on his championship winnings.