- Luke Littler was convincingly beaten by Gerwyn Price on Friday evening
- Price was at his brilliant best as he moved into the Bahrain Masters semi-finals
Luke Littler was brought back down to earth with a bump as he was beaten for the first time since becoming world champion by Gerwyn Price on Friday at the Bahrain Masters.
Littler, 17, played his first match since his Alexandra Palace triumph on Thursday when he beat Lourence Ilagan from the Philippines.
But he was no match for Price in their quarter-final as the Welsh star sealed a 6-2 win with a blistering performance.
Price, a world champion in his own right, hit seven 180s and finished with an average of over 115 – a new tournament record.
Littler hit five 180s himself and averaged a touch over 105, but was unable to keep pace with Price.
Price made his intentions clear right from the start as he hit back-to-back 180s to take the opening leg convincingly.
Gerwyn Price toppled Luke Littler with a stunning performance at the Bahrain Masters
Littler averaged over 105 but was still unable to keep pace with Price
Price was all smiles after a dominant display, while Littler quickly left the stage following his first loss since becoming world champion
He then took advantage of Littler missing his favourite double 10 to open up a lead, and came within a whisker of hitting a nine-darter.
Price landed eight perfect darts, but his attempt at double 12 just went the wrong side of the wire.
Littler stepped up to hit a a 12-darter of his own, earning a nod of approval from Price, but that was as good as it got for the teenage sensation.
After Littler faltered in the eighth leg, Price returned to the oche to pin double 20 and wrap up a statement victory as he progressed to the semi-finals.
Meanwhile, Littler will now return to the UK ahead of his 18th birthday next week.
The start of his Premier League title defence is also just around the corner, with the first night of the 17-week event due to take place on February 6 in Belfast.
