In a gripping finale at London’s O2 Arena, Luke Humphries defeated teenage sensation Luke Littler to claim his maiden Premier League Darts title on Thursday night, 30 May 2025.
The high-stakes showdown between the two in-form players captivated a sell-out crowd of 15,000, underlining the growing intensity of what is fast becoming darts’ most compelling rivalry.
Humphries, who had never previously lifted the Premier League crown, overcame early struggles to rally in the second half and edge past Littler with a combination of resilience and clinical finishing.
The win also completes an extraordinary milestone in Humphries’ career, adding the Premier League title to his World Championship, Grand Slam, and World Matchplay trophies.
A Rivalry That Delivered
Though both players admitted post-match they weren’t at their sharpest in the early stages, the clash lived up to expectations.
Littler threatened to run away with the contest, nearly going 4–0 and then 5–0 up. But Humphries held firm, regrouping after the interval to produce arguably his best darts in recent months.
“It was some of the best stuff I’ve honestly seen Humphries play in any form,” said Jonathan Liew of The Guardian, speaking in a post-match analysis.
“He was second favourite going into this final but showed real steel. Littler just kept coming at him.”
The second half was a showcase of elite-level darts as Humphries, known for his calm under pressure, executed precision checkouts and seized momentum at key moments to eventually clinch the title.
Mutual Respect Fuels the Fire
This was not just a battle for silverware—it was a continuation of a sporting relationship that is as respectful as it is competitive.
Littler, still only a teenager but already a global star, showed no signs of fading despite the pressure, pushing Humphries to the limit.
“There’s a genuine friendship there,” noted Charlie Wyett from The Sun. “But it’s a vital rivalry for the sport. They’re box office now.
This is darts’ own heavyweight clash, and it’s only just beginning.”
Indeed, with the two set to team up soon for the World Cup of Darts, their partnership adds an intriguing twist to an already compelling narrative.
While they compete fiercely on the oche, their camaraderie off it is helping to elevate the sport to new levels of visibility and professionalism.
Stats and Significance
- Attendance: 15,000 (sold-out O2 Arena, London)
- Final Score: Humphries def. Littler (details unconfirmed in draft but described as “thrilling”)
- Titles now held by Humphries: World Championship, Premier League, World Matchplay, Grand Slam
The Premier League win now places Luke Humphries in elite company.
With victories across all major televised PDC events, he solidifies his status as the world’s top player of the moment.
The triumph is a personal statement of intent, particularly after entering the night as a perceived underdog.
Phil Taylor’s Presence and Legacy Influence
Adding gravitas to the occasion, darts legend Phil Taylor was seen offering post-match advice to the newly crowned champion.
Taylor’s presence signified a symbolic passing of the torch, as darts’ modern stars continue to push the game forward.
“It was good to see Phil involved. His blessing means a lot,” said Wyett.
“But what’s exciting now is that we’re entering a new golden age—and Humphries and Littler are leading the charge.”
The Road Ahead: World Cup and the Chasing Pack
Looking ahead, all eyes turn to the World Cup of Darts, where Humphries and Littler will represent England as a duo.
The partnership has many intrigued—not just because of their individual brilliance, but because of the dynamic between two rivals forced to collaborate.
Yet, while this elite pairing is stealing headlines, questions remain about the chasing pack.
Established stars like Michael van Gerwen, who misses out on the World Cup this year, are under increasing pressure to respond.
“The rest of the field now has to find that extra level,” said Liew. “Humphries and Littler have raised the bar. The next 12 months could redefine the landscape of competitive darts.”
Broader Impact: The Sport’s Popularity Surge
With sell-out crowds, massive TV audiences, and young stars becoming household names, darts is enjoying a rapid expansion in popularity, particularly across the UK and Europe.
Humphries and Littler are the face of this boom, embodying the sport’s blend of working-class roots and elite professionalism.
Littler’s rise has attracted younger demographics to the sport, while Humphries’ consistent class and affable nature have helped him become an ambassador both on and off the stage.
Together, they are turning darts into a year-round narrative sport rather than a seasonal curiosity.