Luke Humphries Retains Players Championship Finals Title, Outlasts Rising Star Luke Littler

Luke Humphries showed once again why he’s one of the top names in darts, defending his Players Championship Finals title with an 11-7 win over the rising sensation Luke Littler. In what was dubbed the “dream final,” Humphries silenced any doubts about his form heading into the PDC World Darts Championship by proving he’s still the man to beat.

The match began with Humphries taking control early, breaking Littler’s throw with a solid 15-dart leg and then doubling his lead. Both players struggled to find their rhythm in the early stages, with Littler missing a crucial 104 finish in the second leg. Humphries capitalized to go up 2-0, setting the tone for a commanding lead.

Littler finally got on the board in the third leg, but his struggles on doubles continued as he finished the session at just 1/12. Humphries, on the other hand, stayed steady, punishing Littler’s misses to establish a 5-1 lead. Littler managed to claw one back with a confident 105 finish, but Humphries responded to maintain a 6-2 advantage with a 97 average.

Littler fired back with flashes of brilliance, including a show-stopping 170 checkout to hold throw at 6-3. After Humphries missed chances for a wider lead, Littler struck again with a stunning 164 finish, narrowing the gap to 6-5. Humphries, however, held his nerve and found key moments to hold his throw, stretching his lead to 8-6 despite crowd distractions.

The 17-year-old Littler kept the pressure on, landing a remarkable 136 finish to stay within one leg at 8-7. But Humphries refused to let the match slip away. He surged ahead with cool finishes and a composed approach, moving to 10-7 and throwing for the title.

Littler needed 94 to stay in the match in the final leg but didn’t get a shot at it. Humphries closed out the win on double 20, celebrating with a roar as he retained his title and sent a clear message heading into Ally Pally.

This victory cements Humphries’ status as one of the sport’s elite players, while Littler’s impressive run further solidifies his place as one of the brightest young stars in darts.