In a gripping final that reaffirmed darts as a sport of high drama and elite competition, Luke Humphries overcame a shaky start to defeat Luke Littler 11-8 and claim his first Premier League Darts title at a packed O2 Arena in London. The win not only marked a significant personal milestone for the world number one, but also elevated his rivalry with Littler into the upper echelons of sporting clashes.
Few rivalries in recent memory have captivated the darts world like the one between Humphries and Littler. Their latest showdown—their 23rd head-to-head in just 18 months—delivered once again, underlining the extent to which the two “Lukes” have become the dominant figures of the sport.
A Match of Momentum and Mentality
Littler, just 17 years old, started the stronger of the two, storming into a 3-0 lead and displaying the calm, focused demeanor that has made him one of darts’ youngest superstars. With every arrow, he appeared to channel the swagger of the sport’s past legends—evoking memories of a young Phil Taylor lighting up smoke-filled taverns in the 90s.
However, Humphries, who had recently taken guidance from the legendary Taylor himself, refused to be rattled. Drawing on his experience and resilience, he clawed his way back into the match, leveling at 3-3 and setting the tone for a back-and-forth encounter that gripped the O2 audience and viewers around the world.
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The contest remained deadlocked until Humphries found an extra gear. In the final stretch, it was Littler who blinked first—faltering at a crucial moment—allowing Humphries to surge ahead and close out the match 11-8.
Triple Crown Glory for Humphries
With this win, Luke Humphries becomes only the fourth player in history to secure darts’ prestigious triple crown: the World Championship, World Matchplay, and now the Premier League. He joins legends Phil Taylor, Michael van Gerwen, and Gary Anderson in that exclusive club—a testament to his consistency and dominance at the highest level.
✅World Championship🏆
✅World Matchplay🏆✅ PREMIER LEAGUE!🏆
What a feeling!
It feels so good to join such an exclusive club to win these three big trophies, and I’m over the moon to win the @BetMGMUK Premier League!
It’s been a long, hard 17 weeks, but the reward at the… pic.twitter.com/rZEeqmmjom
— Luke Humphries (@lukeh180) May 29, 2025
“That one means the world to me – it’s the one I was missing,” said an emotional Humphries after the match. “If I don’t win another title, that’s fine because I’ve won the three hardest ones to win. He [Littler] wasn’t at his best tonight, and nor was I, but I managed to get one over on him. I’ll get these wins in early before he trounces everyone.”
Humphries also acknowledged the pressure and motivation that Littler brings into their matchups, describing their rivalry as one that is pushing both of them to unprecedented heights.
Littler’s Star Still Rising
Despite the loss, Luke Littler’s incredible rise in the sport continues. Still a teenager, he has already played in two world finals, won one, and captured last year’s Premier League title. His calm under pressure and lightning-fast throwing style have made him a fan favorite, drawing new audiences to the sport and expanding its global appeal.
In many ways, the final was not just about who won—it was about what this rivalry represents. Just as tennis was defined by Federer vs. Nadal and boxing by Ali vs. Frazier, darts now has a modern narrative that is capturing imaginations: Littler vs. Humphries.
Their head-to-head tally now stands at 13-10 in Littler’s favor, but with another Premier League final under their belt—each winning one—it’s clear the pendulum could swing in either direction in future matchups.
A Bright Future for the Sport
The significance of Thursday night’s final goes beyond trophies and prize money. With Littler and Humphries at the helm, darts is undergoing a renaissance, with packed venues, soaring TV ratings, and growing international interest.
Both players, while fierce competitors, bring out the best in each other. luke Littler’s youthful confidence and natural talent mesh perfectly with Humphries’ gritty determination and strategic finesse. Their rivalry is not just enhancing the sport—it’s transforming it.
As darts looks toward its future, this final may well be remembered as a defining chapter in its evolution. With two superstars locked in a thrilling battle for supremacy, fans can expect many more epic nights ahead.
