Luke Humphries says his recent triumph at the World Grand Prix has left him feeling primed to capture a second World Championship title, and he would love to meet fellow Englishman Luke Littler in the championship final. The 31‑year‑old Englishman secured his first major championship since the 2025 Premier League by overturning a 0‑3 deficit and beating Gerwyn Price 6‑4 in the double‑start final, sealing the win with a spectacular 11‑dart finish after breaking Price’s throw in the tenth leg to clinch the ninth set. That comeback victory underscored Humphries’ resilience and his ability to thrive under pressure.
Humphries, nicknamed “Cool Hand,” previously defeated Littler to claim the 2024 World Championship and also won last year’s Premier League. Despite those successes, he has suffered four consecutive defeats in major finals at the hands of Michael "The Nuke" van Gerwen, including a loss to van Gerwen in the 2025 World Grand Prix final. Having played four consecutive days in Leicester during the Grand Prix, Humphries told Sky Sports that the grueling schedule actually boosted his confidence heading into the World Championship, which uses a similar set‑play format at Alexandra Palace from 11 December. He explained, “Four days on the trot is tough, but I’ve done it countless times.
I know the Worlds will test you over three demanding days – quarters, semis and the final. Winning a major tournament like this gives me the right mindset to chase another world title.” He went on to say, “My goal now is to reach the World final and face Luke again. The real darts fans know I’m still here, still capable of winning big things.” Humphries added that he has come close to beating Littler in several majors over the past six to eight months, and he respects the rivalry: “He deserves credit for what he’s done for the sport.
He’s one of my closest friends on tour. Some people don’t like that, but I think he’s a fantastic kid and an amazing ambassador for darts. 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, current world champion Luke Littler and James Wade.
He reflected on this achievement, noting, “Nine majors and two World Cups in just three years is insane. If I stay in the game for another 15 or 20 years, who knows how many more I could add?” Humphries highlighted the depth of the modern darts calendar, saying, “It’s not just one player dominating; there are so many opportunities now with a plethora of major events.
That variety fuels my confidence and I’m determined to add another big trophy this year.” He recalled the final stretch against Price, emphasizing his focus: “Those last four legs, I didn’t think anyone could stop me. I felt laser‑focused and determined.” He also addressed the inevitable dips in form that players experience: “After a few months of not playing my best, critics start to write you off, saying you’re finished.
But I always bounce back, popping up in a major final or winning a title when people least expect it.” During the Grand Prix, Humphries appeared with a scab on his scalp, which he later attributed to an allergic reaction to makeup used while filming the TV show Bullseye. He joked onstage after his victory over Price, “Harry Potter did well, didn’t he?!” and later told Sky Sports, “It’s been the story of the week.
I think I’m fine, but it might have gotten infected, so I’ll get that sorted.” Looking ahead, Humphries’ schedule remains packed. The European Tour continues with the Swiss Darts Trophy in Lucerne from 9‑11 October, followed by the Dutch Darts Championship in Assen from 16‑18 October.
The European Championship will then take place in Dortmund, Germany, from 22‑25 October. Sky Sports will continue to be 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 via the NOW platform without a contract, ensuring easy access to live action throughout the season. In summary, Humphries feels the momentum from his World Grand Prix victory has set the stage for a serious world‑title challenge.
He is eager to test himself against Littler once more in a potential final showdown, confident that his experience, recent success and the depth of the current darts calendar will provide the perfect platform to add another major trophy to his growing collection.