Luke Littler delivered a commanding performance at the World Matchplay in Blackpool, demolishing Ryan Searle 10-2 whilst recording an extraordinary average of 108.92.
The reigning World Champion's display fell marginally short of Phil Taylor's tournament record of 114.99, though he had soared to 121.21 after the opening five legs.
Making his statement as tournament favourite, Littler required merely 16 minutes to dispatch Searle at the Winter Gardens.
His debut appearance last year ended in defeat to Michael van Gerwen, but this emphatic victory demonstrated his evolution into a genuine title contender.
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|Luke Littler cruised to a 10-2 victory over Ryan Searle on Sunday evening
The 18-year-old sensation obliterated Searle from the outset, securing a 5-0 advantage in merely seven minutes during the opening session.
Three breaks of throw, a spectacular 126 checkout and exceptional doubles accuracy left his opponent helpless.
"I was well up for it tonight, I just wanted to get that win, get that winning feeling, and I did it," Littler told Sky Sports. "I've just been putting in hours and hours. I'm glad it's paid off."
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"I've got a competition to focus on!" 🤣
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Luke Littler on his driving theory test 🚗 pic.twitter.com/0ycUMRJHPG
His initial five legs required just 12, 12, 13, 11 and 14 darts respectively, maintaining an almost unplayable standard throughout.
The victory secured a second-round encounter with Jermaine Wattimena.
The tournament has already witnessed numerous high-profile casualties beyond Humphries' departure.
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Nathan Aspinall, who claimed the 2023 title, fell 10-6 to Dutchman Wessel Nijman on Saturday, and on Sunday afternoon, four falling in quick succession.
Seventh seed Damon Heta departed after a thrilling 12-10 overtime defeat to Andrew Gilding, whilst Rob Cross and Peter Wright also joined the exodus of favourites.
Dave Chisnall became another, but stalwart James Wade bucked the trend, progressing comfortably with a 10-3 victory over Joe Cullen to secure his second-round berth.
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|Defending champion and world No1 Luke Humphries was knocked out in the first round against Gian van Veen
The most significant shock arrived when defending champion Luke Humphries crashed out 10-8 against Gian van Veen.
The world No1's title defence ended abruptly as the 23-year-old Dutchman capitalised on Humphries' struggles with his finishing.
"To beat such a phenomenal player like Luke, I am over the moon," Van Veen told Sky Sports. "He is a great champion and a great guy."
Humphries had aimed to join an elite group of players to secure consecutive titles.
Instead, Van Veen advances to face compatriot Danny Noppert, who cruised past debutant Cameron Menzies 10-2.