Dobey Claims Second Title of 2026 as Humphries' Struggles Persist

Luke Humphries' recent slump continued with a disappointing last-16 exit at the Players Championship 9 in Wigan, while Chris Dobey dominated the competition to secure his second title of 2026. Humphries' early departure came just four days after a quarter-final loss to Jonny Clayton in Brighton, which has put his chances of reaching the Premier League finals in doubt. He was defeated 6-4 by Andrew Gilding, who went on to beat Beau Greaves 6-3 after her historic run to the quarter-finals. Greaves, 22, made history by becoming the first woman to reach a ProTour quarter-final, defeating Raymond van Barneveld and Premier League leader Clayton along the way. Gilding's run ultimately ended with a 7-1 semi-final loss to Dobey, who cruised to the title with an 8-4 win over Justin Hood in the final, earning the £15,000 prize. Dobey trailed 2-0 in the final but rebounded to win six of the next seven legs, sealing the victory with a 105.28 average. "My goal now is to translate this form to TV and European Tour events," Dobey said. "I know I have the ability, it's just about maintaining consistency." The tournament also witnessed a nine-darter, courtesy of Thomas Lovely in his round three loss to Luke Woodhouse. Dobey's win has boosted his confidence, and he will look to carry this momentum into future competitions, including the Premier League Darts, which can be streamed on NOW.