Luke Littler Claims World Masters Glory as Humphries Hails Him the Greatest Ever
Luke Humphries delivered one of the strongest compliments imaginable after being edged out by Luke Littler in a thrilling World Masters final, describing the teenage sensation as “the greatest darts player who has ever lived.”
The 19-year-old Littler produced another unforgettable performance to defeat Humphries 6-5 in a dramatic, high-quality showdown, capturing his first World Masters title and further cementing his place among darts’ elite. The victory also took Littler to 11 major PDC titles, moving him level with James Wade and placing him behind only the sport’s two most decorated players in the PDC era — Michael van Gerwen (48 titles) and Phil Taylor (79).
A Final That Lived Up to the Hype
The World Masters final delivered everything fans could have hoped for. Momentum swung repeatedly, pressure moments were everywhere, and the standard of play was extraordinary. Across the match, 25 maximum 180s were thrown as both players traded blows in a contest that remained on a knife-edge until the final dart.
Littler eventually sealed victory by pinning his favourite double 10, securing the £100,000 top prize and adding yet another milestone to an already astonishing young career.
Humphries, the world number two and defending champion, was magnanimous in defeat. Speaking after the match, he admitted how difficult it was to find flaws in Littler’s game.
“When you look back at the whole match, it’s hard to pick holes in his performance,” Humphries said. “It’s the pressure he puts you under. He never collapses, never hides. That’s class.”
He then went further, offering a statement that resonated throughout the darts world:
“I think he’s the greatest darts player who has ever lived.”
Littler’s Relentless Rise Continues
This latest triumph means the European Championship is now the only major televised PDC title missing from Littler’s glittering résumé. Already a two-time world champion, the teenager continues to rewrite records at a pace that has left even seasoned professionals in awe.
The road to the final was far from straightforward. Littler had already survived a pulsating semi-final against Gerwyn Price, where he edged a 5-4 win after the Welshman narrowly missed a match dart. That escape seemed to fuel Littler rather than drain him.
From the opening exchanges of the final, it was clear Littler had raised his level again. A stunning 153 checkout early on sent a clear message, though Humphries — fresh from a dominant 5-0 semi-final win over Gian van Veen — responded by taking the opening set.
Trading Blows at the Highest Level
Littler quickly wrestled control, surging into a 3-1 lead with breathtaking scoring and finishing, including a superb 121 checkout. However, Humphries was determined not to relinquish the title he claimed last year.
With precision and experience, Humphries fought back, delivering 10-dart and 13-dart legs to level the contest. Littler then missed three crucial darts at double top that would have pushed him further ahead, and Humphries pounced, hauling himself back into contention.
As the match tightened, Humphries landed his first 100+ checkout and edged within one set of defending his crown. At that point, Littler admitted he was physically and mentally exhausted.
“I had absolutely nothing left,” Littler said later. “I was shattered. But somehow I managed to dig deep.”
Champion’s Mentality on Full Display
What followed was another example of why Littler is already spoken about in legendary terms. Despite fatigue, he found extra gears when it mattered most. After the final interval, Littler produced 13-dart and 12-dart legs to force a deciding set, shifting the pressure firmly back onto Humphries.
A crucial break of throw in the opening leg of the decider gave Littler the advantage — and he did not let it slip. One clean dart at double 10 was enough to complete the comeback and secure his maiden World Masters crown.
The final averages underlined the exceptional quality on display: Littler averaged 104.72, while Humphries posted an even higher 105.51, illustrating just how razor-thin the margins were.
Respect Between Rivals
Despite the heartbreak, Humphries’ post-match comments reflected immense respect rather than frustration. He acknowledged the psychological strain Littler applies simply by being on stage.
“That’s the pressure he puts on you,” Humphries explained. “You know if you give him even a sniff, he’s going to take it.”
Littler echoed the sentiment, suggesting the rivalry between the two Lukes could define the season ahead.
“It’s been me and Luke in the first major of the year,” he said. “I’m sure it’s going to continue.”
What Comes Next?
All four semi-finalists — Littler, Humphries, Price and Van Veen — will quickly turn their attention to the 2026 Premier League, which begins in Newcastle on Thursday. Given the standard seen at the World Masters, expectations for the new season are already sky-high.
For Littler, the journey shows no signs of slowing. At just 19, he is already being measured against the greatest names the sport has ever known — and increasingly, surpassing them.
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