Luke Humphries acknowledges Luke Littler’s edge in darts rivalry
Luke Humphries has admitted that teenage sensation Luke Littler currently holds “the edge” in their battle for darts supremacy, setting up the prospect of a blockbuster showdown for the world No 1 spot if both reach Sunday night’s Grand Slam of Darts final in Wolverhampton, reports BritPanorama.
Humphries, 30, and Littler, 18, have emerged as the fiercest new rivalry in the sport, with the pair trading titles and heavyweight averages throughout a remarkable season. It is “The Nuke,” who could seize the global top ranking should he lift the Grand Slam crown.
The scenario adds intensity to a tournament already brimming with storylines. Speaking candidly about their race for the summit, Humphries confessed he believes Littler has been operating at a more consistent level. “I think you just say things in the moment, but I think his ceiling is a lot more consistent than mine,” Humphries said.
He added, “I can perform at these levels, but I don’t maybe do it as often as he does. Maybe that’s just a credit to him. He’s got such a great throw, and he just does it time after time.” Humphries stressed he isn’t being negative about his own game – only realistic about the teenager’s extraordinary rise. “He just does it a lot more, like these big 100-plus averages,” he explained.
Before any showdown with Littler can happen, Humphries must get past former world champion Gerwyn Price in Sunday afternoon’s semi-final—a task he knows is far from simple. Still, he says the thought of meeting Littler for the trophy later that evening is a thrilling one. “Of course I’d love to meet him in the final,” Humphries stated.
Humphries acknowledges the camaraderie they share, saying, “I love playing him. I get on really well with him and it’s always a good prospect playing him in a good final. I really get up for it, and he does as well.” Even with the world No 1 ranking in sight, Humphries insists the title hunt is not his primary focus. “For me I’m not really thinking about World No 1 anymore because the Worlds are going to be the one,” he explained.
Humphries is keenly aware of the stakes: “If I can win then I put myself in a good state going into the Worlds, and if I can win that then I’ll win it back anyway. So this is all just a little bit of a free run for me.” As both Lukes move closer to the title match, fans are now daring to hope for another electrifying chapter in a rivalry that could define an era. First, however, Littler must make the last four—he is poised to face Josh Rock on Saturday night.
This rivalry not only showcases the sport’s budding talents but also serves as a reminder of how the game continues to evolve, where age is but a number and consistency reigns supreme. The darts world awaits with bated breath.
