Luke Humphries and Luke Littler Awarded MBE in King’s Birthday Honours: A Celebration of Darts Excellence
In a remarkable recognition of their contributions to the sport, darting superstars Luke Humphries and Luke Littler have been awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours. This prestigious accolade comes at a time when darts is experiencing a surge in popularity across the nation. They join an esteemed group of honorees, including football icon David Beckham, tennis champion Virginia Wade, and rugby league legend Billy Boston.
Darting Success: Luke Humphries Reigns as World No. 1
At just 30 years old, Luke Humphries is currently the world’s top-ranked player, having recently clinched the Premier League title and bagged an impressive £275,000 in prize money. His victory marks a significant milestone as he has now completed the coveted "triple crown" by winning three of the most prestigious tournaments in Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) history: the World Championship, World Matchplay, and Premier League. In a thrilling final, Humphries faced off against 18-year-old Luke Littler, adding another exciting chapter to their budding rivalry.
The Rise of Luke Littler: A Teen Sensation
Luke Littler made headlines when he burst onto the darts scene at just 16, reaching the final of the esteemed World Championships at Alexandra Palace. Although he narrowly lost to Humphries in that match, Littler quickly turned the tables by defeating him in their first Premier League showdown that same year. This year, Littler emerged victorious in the World Championship, taking home a staggering £500,000 in prize money, further solidifying his status as a rising star in the sport.
Darts Dominance: The New Era
The remarkable performances of Humphries and Littler have significantly elevated the profile and quality of darts, leaving established players like Michael van Gerwen in their wake. With over £1.3 million in prize money, Littler’s earnings nearly double those of van Gerwen, who has amassed around £730,000 and failed to qualify for the Premier League play-offs for only the second time in 13 years.
Exciting Times Ahead: World Cup of Darts
This weekend, Humphries and Littler will join forces for the first time, representing England in the prestigious World Cup of Darts. Humphries is set to defend his title, having won the tournament last year alongside Michael Smith. Despite being the clear favorites, Humphries remains unfazed by the added pressure, stating, “Luke and I have been the favorites in every tournament we’ve played in this year, and we still manage to win them.”
As they step onto the oche, both players will carry the honor of their MBE titles, a testament to their dedication and skill in the world of darts. With their promising partnership, fans can expect thrilling performances and a showcase of elite darting talent.
