LUKE HUMPHRIES has questioned Gary Anderson’s decision-making following the Scot’s defeat to Michael van Gerwen, suggesting the two-time world champion may have made a costly tactical error at a crucial moment.
World number one Humphries was reacting after watching Van Gerwen overcome Anderson in a high-quality clash, with the Dutchman once again showing his trademark ruthlessness on the big stage. While praising Van Gerwen’s performance, Humphries felt Anderson had played a role in his own downfall.
Speaking after the match, Humphries pointed to Anderson’s choice to switch targets at a key stage, a move he believes allowed Van Gerwen to regain control of the contest.
“Against someone like Michael, you can’t give him anything,” Humphries said.
“Gary’s an unbelievable player, but I think that decision just gave Michael a way back into the match.”
Humphries explained that Van Gerwen thrives when opponents hesitate or alter their approach, warning that even a brief lapse can be punished by the three-time world champion.
“Michael feeds off moments like that,” he added.
“Once he senses doubt, he raises his level straight away.”
Van Gerwen’s Big-Game Mentality
Van Gerwen, who has built his career on relentless pressure and momentum swings, capitalised instantly. From the moment Anderson faltered, the Dutchman stepped up the pace, tightening his finishing and dominating the scoring phases.
Humphries acknowledged that Anderson’s quality never disappeared, but felt the damage had already been done.
“Gary still played great darts,” Humphries said.
“But at this level, one wrong decision can be the difference — especially against someone like Michael.”
Respect for Anderson, Warning for Rivals
Despite the criticism, Humphries was quick to stress that his comments were not a slight on Anderson, whom he described as one of the sport’s greatest ever players.
“Gary’s achieved everything in the game,” Humphries said.
“This isn’t about disrespect — it’s just how fine the margins are now.”
The remarks also served as a subtle warning to the rest of the field. Humphries made it clear that beating Van Gerwen requires total commitment and clarity, with no room for second-guessing.
Tournament Implications
With Van Gerwen advancing and confidence growing, Humphries believes the Dutchman is once again proving why he remains one of the most feared players in world darts.
“He’s always dangerous,” Humphries said.
“If you let him off the hook, even once, he’ll make you pay.”
As the tournament reaches its decisive stages, Humphries’ comments underline just how unforgiving elite darts has become — where experience alone is no guarantee, and every decision can shape the outcome of a match.
