Gary Anderson Draws the Line: “Luke Humphries Is the World’s Best — But Van Gerwen Still Rules Europe”
Gary “The Flying Scotsman” Anderson has delivered his no-nonsense verdict on darts’ current hierarchy — and it’s bound to stir debate across the PDC circuit. Speaking ahead of the 2025 Mr Vegas Grand Slam of Darts (November 8–16 in Wolverhampton), the two-time World Champion didn’t hesitate when asked who sits atop the sport right now.
“Who’s the best player in the world right now? That’s easy — Luke Humphries. But if you’re talking Europe? That’s still Michael van Gerwen. Simple.”
Anderson’s straight-talking assessment, dropped during his appearance on the Weekly Dartscast on October 31, comes at a fascinating point in the season. Humphries, fresh from a heartbreaking 11–10 defeat to Gian van Veen in the European Championship final, remains world number one and arguably the sport’s most consistent performer. Meanwhile, Van Gerwen — who crashed out early in the Players Championship just days later — still commands immense respect as Europe’s ultimate showman.
Anderson’s Logic: Consistency vs. Legacy
For Anderson, the reasoning is crystal clear. Humphries, he says, has earned his status through relentless consistency and composure under pressure — qualities that define modern dominance. Van Gerwen, on the other hand, continues to embody European darts’ aura of intimidation and success.
“Luke’s got that cool head now,” Anderson explained. “He doesn’t miss when it matters. MVG? He’s still the king of Europe — when he turns up, the crowd knows it. But globally? Humphries is the man.”
The numbers support the Scotsman’s claim. Humphries has collected the 2025 World Matchplay, the Grand Slam, and three Players Championship titles — adding to his 2024 World Championship crown. Van Gerwen, meanwhile, boasts a stack of European silverware, including the Poland Darts Masters, four Players Championships, and the Baltic Sea Open.
The Bigger Picture: Where Does Littler Fit In?
Anderson’s verdict notably left out Luke Littler — the teenage phenom who’s turned the sport on its head since his World Championship breakthrough. Littler, currently ranked world number two, has scooped up over £1.5 million in prize money this year and added major titles at the World Grand Prix and Premier League. Yet, Anderson believes he’s not quite at the level of Humphries’ consistency — at least not yet.
“Littler’s a freak,” Anderson said bluntly. “He’ll win everything soon. But right now? He’s not consistent enough to be called the best. Humphries is.”
What Comes Next
The timing of Anderson’s comments is telling. The Grand Slam of Darts kicks off next week, with Humphries, Van Gerwen, and Littler all drawn in separate groups — and Anderson himself lurking in Group E, potentially on a collision course with MVG in the quarterfinals.
If Anderson’s prediction holds true, the next few weeks could settle the argument once and for all. The Grand Slam, followed by the Players Championship Finals and the World Championship at Ally Pally, will determine whether Humphries can cement his status as darts’ global number one — or whether Van Gerwen can reassert his European dominance.
The Takeaway
Anderson’s words draw a clear boundary line in today’s game:
- World’s Best: Luke Humphries
- Europe’s King: Michael van Gerwen
- The Future: Luke Littler
In a sport defined by rivalries, few opinions carry as much weight as Anderson’s. And as the road to Ally Pally begins, darts fans have one question: can Humphries hold his global crown, or will Van Gerwen reclaim the throne of Europe?
The battle lines are drawn. Let the arrows fly. 🎯
