Luke Humphries delivered a darting masterclass to reach the 2024 World Grand Prix final, sweeping Ryan Joyce aside with a dominant 5-0 victory in Leicester. The defending champion showcased his top form and set up a highly anticipated final clash with Belgium’s Mike de Decker on Sunday night.
Humphries, nicknamed “Cool Hand Luke,” had been solid throughout the tournament but raised his game to new heights in the semifinal. His statistics reflected his brilliance: an average of 100.30, a checkout success rate of 60%, and an impressive eight 180s. Additionally, Humphries opened legs with 47% accuracy, underlining his control of the match from start to finish.
Strong Start Sets the Tone
The semifinal got off to a flying start for Humphries, who took the first set 3-0 without giving Joyce a chance to settle. Humphries’ precision on the finishing doubles and his high scoring left “Relentless” chasing the game early on.
Joyce did manage to push Humphries in the second set, taking a 2-0 lead and threatening to make a contest of it. However, the defending champion kept his composure, winning three consecutive legs to take the set 3-2 and dash Joyce’s hopes of turning the tide.
Big Checkouts Propel Humphries
Humphries continued to dominate, winning the third set 3-1. He punctuated this set with a spectacular 144 checkout, further demonstrating his clinical finishing under pressure. The reigning champion maintained his momentum in the fourth set with another brilliant checkout—this time a 146—while Joyce waited on double 10. Humphries followed up with a 13-darter and a 110 finish, completing the set 3-0.
With the match slipping away, Joyce had no answers. The fifth set was another clean sweep for Humphries, who closed the match with ruthless efficiency, taking the set 3-0 and sealing his place in the final.
Ready for the Final Showdown
Humphries’ 5-0 demolition of Joyce was not only impressive but also a statement ahead of Sunday’s final. He is now poised to defend his World Grand Prix crown and secure another major title.
Humphries will face Mike de Decker, who advanced to his first-ever major final after defeating Dimitri van den Bergh earlier in the evening. With both players in top form, the final promises to be a thrilling encounter.
The 29-year-old Humphries has now established himself as one of the most consistent and dangerous players in the world of darts. Can he retain his World Grand Prix title, or will De Decker’s fairytale run end with a first major triumph? All eyes will be on the oche Sunday night for the grand finale.
