Luke Humphries makes worrying admission as darts world No1 considers major change amid Luke Littler Red Hot Form
Luke Humphries, the world No. 1 darts player and 2024 PDC World Champion, has opened up about the “problem” posed by teenage sensation Luke Littler’s meteoric rise, admitting the 18-year-old’s dominance has forced him to confront his own form and mindset. In a candid interview with Darts News on September 13, 2025, ahead of the World Series of Darts Finals in Amsterdam, Humphries revealed that Littler’s success has created a “problem” for him personally and for the sport’s hierarchy. “Luke’s caused me a problem—it’s getting embarrassing how good he is,” Humphries said. “I have to try now before it’s too late, to unearth something that could be very, very special.” The comments highlight Humphries’ respect for Littler while underscoring the pressure on the established elite as darts enters a new era dominated by the young prodigy.
Humphries’ Admission: A Wake-Up Call
Humphries, 30, has been open about his struggles in 2025, winning just one major title (the Players Championship Finals) compared to Littler’s six, including the World Championship (£500,000), Premier League (£315,000), and World Matchplay (£200,000). “Luke’s form is ridiculous—he’s averaging 100+ consistently, hitting nine-darters like it’s nothing,” Humphries said. “It’s embarrassing for me because I’ve been No. 1, but he’s making me question everything.” He revealed a negative attitude creeping in during recent events, like his second-round exit at the World Grand Prix, where he missed 21 darts in key legs.
The “problem” extends to the sport: Littler’s appeal has shattered viewership records (3.75 million for the 2024 Worlds final) and boosted PDC prize money to £25 million in 2025. Humphries admitted, “He’s the face of darts now, and that’s fine—it’s great for the game. But it’s a problem for me because I have to adapt or get left behind.” His solution? A major mindset shift: “I have to try now before it’s too late, to unearth something that could be very, very special.” Humphries plans to experiment with darts, flights, and training, inspired by Littler’s fearless approach.
Littler’s Dominance: The Catalyst for Change
Littler’s 2025 has been phenomenal: 17 PDC titles, five majors, and a net worth of £1.5-6 million from endorsements like Target Darts and boohooMAN. At the World Series Finals, he reached the final but lost 11-7 to Michael van Gerwen, showing vulnerability under pressure. Humphries, who beat Littler in the 2024 Worlds final (7-4) and Premier League final (11-8), leads their head-to-head 13-10 but knows the gap is closing. “Luke’s caused a problem for everyone—me, MVG, Price. He’s the benchmark now,” Humphries said.
The world No. 1’s admission follows a dip: quarters at the UK Open and World Matchplay, but early exits in the World Grand Prix and European Tour events. “When I’m on it, nothing like that goes through my mind,” he confessed. “But lately, it’s all I think about—changing darts, points, flights.” Humphries, nicknamed “Cool Hand Luke,” has been praised for his openness, with PDC chief Barry Hearn calling him “a class act” for confronting his form publicly.
The Bigger Picture: Darts’ New Era
Humphries’ “problem” reflects darts’ evolution under Littler. The sport’s prize money has doubled to £25 million, with events selling out globally. Humphries, a 2023 World Grand Prix and Grand Slam winner, remains a top contender with 24 PDC titles, but Littler’s youth and flair have shifted the spotlight. “He’s the next big thing,” Humphries acknowledged. “I respect that, but it’s my job to stay ahead.”
As Humphries prepares for the World Grand Prix (October 7-12, 2025), his vow to “try before it’s too late” signals a reinvigorated push. Littler, gracious after his recent final loss, praised Humphries: “He’s still the best—good battles ahead.” In darts’ golden era, Humphries’ admission isn’t defeat—it’s determination to evolve alongside the prodigy who’s redefined the game.
