World number one edges past fellow Englishman in New York showcase
If Madison Square Garden is the world’s most iconic sporting stage, then Luke Humphries just added another glorious chapter to his ever-growing darting legacy on Saturday night.
The 30-year-old Englishman, currently ranked world number one, emerged victorious at the US Darts Masters, overcoming a spirited fightback from Nathan Aspinall to seal an 8-6 win in a high-quality final. It marked yet another major title for Humphries in what is fast becoming the defining year of his career.
Another milestone in a golden run for Humphries
Fresh from clinching both the World Masters and the Premier League earlier this year, Humphries has continued to elevate his game on the biggest stages. The World Series of Darts event in New York offered another stern test — and once again, he passed it with distinction.
“This is the most iconic venue that we play in and it’s really special to win this event,” Humphries said post-match, beaming as he held aloft the trophy under the bright lights of Madison Square Garden. “It’s one I’ve always dreamed of winning. When I finally got over the line, it was an amazing relief.”
There’s something about “Cool Hand Luke” that sets him apart — the composure, the timing, the flair when it matters most. And against a resurgent Aspinall, all of those attributes were on full display.
A thrilling all-English final under the lights
The match itself was a rollercoaster. Humphries began in imperious form, racing to a 3-0 lead before Aspinall — the 2019 US Darts Masters champion — clawed his way back into the contest with a gutsy 90 finish on the bull to level things at 5-5.
But just when it seemed like momentum might shift completely in Aspinall’s favour, Humphries produced a breathtaking 142 checkout — arguably the moment of the match — to move back in front. It was the kind of finish that separates the elite from the rest.
Aspinall wasn’t done though. He had his chances, missing two darts to force a deciding leg. But Humphries, ever the opportunist, stepped up and finished the job on double eight — a cool, clinical end to a fiery contest.
Route to the final: statement performances from both men
Both players had enjoyed strong runs to reach the final in the Big Apple.
Humphries began his campaign with a commanding 6-2 win over American Danny Lauby, whose earlier giant-killing of Rob Cross had lit up the first round. In the semi-final, Humphries faced Gerwyn Price, a perennial contender and former world champion, whom he brushed aside 7-2 with ruthless efficiency.
Aspinall’s journey was arguably even more eye-catching. In the quarter-finals, he defeated the sport’s brightest young star, Luke Littler, 6-4 in a contest packed with drama and swagger. That was followed by a 7-3 win over Australia’s Damon Heta, showcasing the grit and resilience that have become trademarks of Aspinall’s game.
Despite the loss in the final, Aspinall can hold his head high. His performances throughout the tournament showed once again that when he’s on song, he can trouble anyone in the world.
A memorable night at the Garden
What made the occasion even more special was the setting. The US Darts Masters is part of the PDC’s ongoing mission to grow the sport globally, and hosting the event at Madison Square Garden brought added significance. With thousands in attendance and millions watching online, it was a statement that darts belongs among the world’s top sports spectacles.
From the lighting to the crowd energy, and from the quality on the oche to the drama in the commentary box, this was a night that reaffirmed darts as one of the most entertaining shows in sport.
For Humphries, it was more than just another title. It was proof that he can deliver — and win — under the biggest spotlights.
Looking ahead: Poland up next on World Series calendar
There’s little time to rest for the sport’s top players. The World Series of Darts continues next month with the Poland Darts Masters, scheduled for July 4-5 in Gliwice. With the likes of Humphries, Littler, Price, and Aspinall all expected to feature, the action promises to be just as explosive.
For now, though, all eyes remain on Humphries. With every tournament win, he strengthens his grip on the world number one spot and builds momentum towards a potentially historic season.
The gap is closing — but Humphries is still the man to beat
Despite the depth of talent in the men’s game right now, there’s a growing sense that 2024 and 2025 might come to be known as the Humphries era. Littler may be the generational prodigy and Price the fiery veteran, but right now, it’s Luke Humphries who’s getting the job done when it counts.
He’s efficient, he’s unfazed by the pressure, and he delivers time and time again.
In a tournament packed with elite players and memorable moments, Humphries beating Aspinall in the US Darts Masters final will be the headline act — not just for what it says about the current hierarchy in darts, but for what it says about one man’s journey to the very top.
