Luke Littler has opened up on some brutal comments from James Wade prior to his World Matchplay triumph over the weekend.
The veteran darts player delivered some harsh motivation, just hours before their championship clash on Sunday.
"He literally told me: 'Get up off your a**e and practice with me. 121.' Alright, James," Littler revealed to TungstenTales, describing Wade's no-nonsense approach.
The pair spent time working on checkout combinations ranging from 121 to 170.
Luke Littler has opened up on some brutal comments from James Wade prior to his World Matchplay triumph over the weekend
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Wade's forceful words and intensive drilling session appeared to sharpen the youngster's focus ahead of Sunday's final at the Winter Gardens.
This tough-love mentoring from his eventual opponent would prove crucial in Littler's record-breaking victory.
At just 18 years, six months and six days old, the youngster has shattered the World Matchplay age record previously held by Wade himself.
The teenager secured an 18-13 victory in Sunday's final to add yet another title to his growing collection.
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Luke Littler was congratulated by James Wade following his triumph at the World Matchplay
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This triumph marks Littler's third major title, completing darts' prestigious triple crown alongside his World Championship and Premier League victories.
Only four players before him have achieved this feat: Phil Taylor, Michael van Gerwen, Gary Anderson and Luke Humphries.
The £200,000 prize represents Littler's first tournament win since claiming the Belgian Darts Open in March.
His demanding Premier League schedule, which spanned 16 weeks, had limited his tournament appearances throughout the year.
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The championship match began disastrously for Littler as Wade surged to a commanding 5-0 advantage.
This marked the second consecutive match where the teenager faced such a deficit, having encountered an identical scoreline against Josh Rock in the semi-finals.
However, Littler mounted an impressive recovery, eventually establishing a 14-11 lead. Wade attempted a late resurgence, but the youngster maintained his composure to secure the 18-13 victory.
Following the winning dart, Wade approached his young conqueror with gracious words.
"He said: 'Well played, brilliant tournament and well done to you'," Littler revealed about their on-stage exchange.
The defeat marked Wade's second loss to Littler this year, following an 11-2 defeat in March's UK Open final.
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Luke Littler poses with girlfriend Faith Millar following his triumph at the World Matchplay
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Littler acknowledged Wade's improvement since their UK Open encounter in Minehead.
"He's definitely got a lot better since the UK Open," the teenager noted, reflecting on their contrasting performances in both finals.
The World Matchplay victory ends a four-month trophy drought for Littler, who now holds three of darts' most prestigious titles before his 19th birthday.