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Former Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney has hailed Luke Littler as “unbelievable” after his PDC World Championship victory over Michael van Gerwen.
Littler, 17, became the youngster winner in the competition’s history as he defeated the Dutchman, 35, at London’s Alexandra Palace on Friday night.
The Warrington teen averaged over 102 as he raced into a 4-0 lead over Van Gerwen and threw 12 180s across the 10 sets before getting his hands on the Sid Waddell Trophy for the first time and pocketing the £500,000 cash prize.
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And in the aftermath of his World Championship triumph, Littler was inundated with messages of support from the sporting world, with former Manchester United and England captain one of the most high-profile names to send his congratulations to the 17-year-old
The 39-year-old uploaded a photo to Instagram of Littler with his 11-year-old son, Klay, with the caption: “What a night for the lads. Congratulations Luke. Unbelievable.”
For Rooney, his public support of Littler is the first time he has taken to social media since he was sacked by Championship outfit Plymouth Argyle earlier this week.
Ex-England international Rooney – who endured a disastrous 83-day spell at Birmingham City last season – won just four of his 23 Championship games during his time in Devon.
Before Rooney’s sacking, Plymouth fell to the bottom of the Championship table and are six points from safety.
In a statement released by the club last week, Rooney said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Board of Plymouth Argyle Football Club, in particular Simon Hallett and Neil Dewsnip who I shared great relationships with.
“Thanks also to all the staff who made me feel welcome and who make the club such a special place, the players and fans for their efforts and support during my time as Head Coach and I wish them all the best for the future.
“To the Green Army thanks for making the games at Home Park so special, they are memories that we will share forever.
“I would also like to give a special mention to my coaching staff Kevin Nancekivell, Simon Ireland, Darryl Flahavan and Mike Phelan for their knowledge, dedication, help and support.
“Plymouth Argyle will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will continue to look out for and take interest in their results.”