Luke Humphries says his recent World Grand Prix victory has left him feeling primed to capture a second World Championship title, and he would love to see fellow competitor Luke Littler waiting for him in the final match. Humphries secured his first major trophy since the 2025 Premier League by clawing back from a 0‑3 deficit to defeat Gerwyn Price 6‑4 in the double‑start final, sealing the win with an impressive 11‑dart finish after breaking Price’s throw in the tenth leg to clinch the ninth set. The 31‑year‑old, nicknamed “Cool Hand,” previously bested Littler to claim the 2024 World Championship and also won last year’s Premier League. However, he has suffered defeat in his last four major finals at the hands of “The Nuke,” including a loss to Price at the 2025 World Grand Prix.
Humphries, who endured four consecutive days of competition in Leicester last week, believes that triumphing in a set‑based format has bolstered his confidence ahead of the similar structure he will face at Alexandra Palace from 11 December, when the World Championship is broadcast live on Sky Sports. Speaking to Sky Sports, the world No. 2 explained, “Playing four days straight is tough, but I’ve done it countless times before. I know the World Championship will test you over three grueling days – quarter‑finals, semi‑finals and the final.
Having just won a major tournament, I feel in a strong mental space to go after the World title again.” He went on to say, “My aim now is to reach the World final and line up against Luke again. Let’s see what happens. True darts fans know I’m still here and capable of winning big events.” Humphries added, “I’ve come very close to beating Luke in a number of majors over the past six to eight months, and I think he enjoys the rivalry as much as I do. He deserves credit for his achievements; he’s one of my closest friends on tour.
Some people might not like that, but I respect him because he’s such a talented young player.” He continued, “He’s doing great for the sport, and the negativity he receives is unfair.” With nine PDC major titles to his name, Humphries now sits fifth on the all‑time major‑wins list, trailing only Phil Taylor, Michael van Gerwen, reigning world champion Luke Littler and James Wade. Reflecting on his rapid accumulation of honours, Humphries said, “Nine major titles and two World Cups in just three years is insane. My first major came at the 2023 World Grand Prix, where I also beat Price in the final.
If I keep playing for another 15 or 20 years, who knows how many more I could add?” He noted the expanding calendar of darts events, “It’s not just one player dominating everything. There are so many opportunities now – a plethora of majors – which is great for my confidence. I hope I can add another big one to my collection this year.” Humphries remained defiant about recent criticism, stating, “I’m still here and I’ll keep winning.
Those last four legs against Price, I don’t think anyone could have stopped me – I was laser‑focused and determined. After a few months of sub‑par form, people write me off, saying ‘he’s finished.’ Yet I always bounce back, popping up in a major final or winning a title.” During the Grand Prix, Humphries sported a noticeable scab on his scalp, which he later attributed to an allergic reaction to makeup used while filming the TV show Bullseye. He joked on stage after his victory, “Harry Potter did well, didn’t he?!” and later told Sky Sports, “It’s been a big story of the week. I think I’m fine, but maybe it got infected, so I’ll get that sorted.” Looking ahead, the European Tour continues with the Swiss Darts Trophy from 9‑11 October and the Dutch Darts Championship from 16‑18 October, before the European Championship in Dortmund, Germany, scheduled for 22‑25 October.
Sky Sports will remain the primary broadcaster for darts, covering the Grand Slam of Darts (14‑22 November) and the World Darts Championship (10 December‑3 January). Fans can also stream matches and additional content via NOW without a contract.