Dobey Dominates Players Championship as Humphries' Struggles Persist

Luke Humphries' form woes continued with a disappointing last-16 exit at the Players Championship 9 in Wigan, where Chris Dobey clinched his second title of 2026. Following his quarter-final defeat to Jonny Clayton in Brighton just four days prior, Humphries was unable to bounce back, suffering a 6-4 loss to Andrew Gilding. Gilding then proceeded to beat Beau Greaves 6-3 after the 22-year-old made history as the first woman to reach a PDC ProTour quarter-final, having secured victories over Raymond van Barneveld and Premier League leader Clayton. However, Gilding's run was halted by eventual winner Dobey, who romped to a 7-1 semi-final win before overcoming Justin Hood 8-4 in the final to claim the £15,000 prize. Dobey, who consistently posted ton-plus averages throughout the tournament, including a 105.28 average in the final, stated, 'The way I've been playing this year, I'm hoping to secure more titles. Winning one of these is challenging, so to win ten is an incredible feeling.' He added, 'I just want to start performing on TV and picking up European Tour titles. I know I can do it; it's all about consistency.' The event in Wigan also witnessed a nine-darter, courtesy of Thomas Lovely in his round three loss to Luke Woodhouse. As for the Premier League Darts, Luke Humphries will be defending his title, with the action unfolding every Thursday until May on Sky Sports.