Fans watching Gian van Veen’s stunning quarter-final victory over Luke Humphries have pinpointed the exact moment they believe the Dutchman “won” the match — long before the final dart was thrown.
Van Veen produced one of the performances of his career to overcome world number one Humphries, combining fearless scoring with ruthless finishing to knock out the reigning champion in a result that sent shockwaves through the tournament.
But while the scoreline told one story, supporters online were quick to argue that the contest swung decisively at a single, pivotal moment.
The Turning Point Fans Can’t Stop Talking About
According to fans, the match effectively changed when Humphries missed key doubles midway through the contest, allowing Van Veen to steal a crucial leg against the throw.
Social media erupted as Van Veen immediately punished the error, following it up with heavy scoring and a clinical checkout in the next leg — a sequence many believe shattered Humphries’ momentum.
“That miss cost him the match,” one fan wrote.
“Once Van Veen took that leg, Humphries never looked comfortable again,” said another.
Van Veen’s Ruthless Response
What impressed viewers most was Van Veen’s reaction. Rather than simply capitalising quietly, the Dutchman raised his intensity instantly, piling pressure on Humphries with back-to-back maximums and relentless visits to the treble bed.
Fans pointed out that Humphries, normally so composed, began rushing throws and showing visible frustration — a rare sight for the world number one on the big stage.
“Van Veen smelled blood and didn’t let up,” one post read.
“That’s when you knew it was over.”
Mental Edge Proved Decisive
Many supporters also highlighted Van Veen’s body language as a key factor. After the pivotal leg, he looked supremely confident, while Humphries appeared increasingly tense between visits.
Several fans argued the psychological blow was more damaging than the missed darts themselves.
“At that moment, Van Veen believed he could win — and Humphries started to doubt,” one viewer commented.
A Breakthrough Performance
The victory is being hailed as a breakthrough moment for Van Veen, with fans praising his composure against one of the sport’s toughest competitors.
Knocking out Humphries in a quarter-final setting has instantly elevated Van Veen’s status, and many believe this match will be remembered as the moment he truly announced himself on the biggest stage.
Fans’ Verdict
While the match was packed with quality throughout, supporters appear united on one point:
the turning point came when Humphries blinked — and Van Veen pounced.
In elite darts, margins are razor-thin. On this occasion, one missed opportunity was all Gian van Veen needed to take control — and never give it back.
