PDC World Darts Championship 2025: Luke Humphries determined to defend title
Tricole, the first Frenchman to compete in the event last year when he lost in the second round to 2018 champion Rob Cross, admitted facing Humphries would be a difficult prospect.
“He is the reigning world champion, the world number one and the last winner of the PDC Championship – Players Championship final. There is no one fitter than him,” he told BBC Sport.
“So it’s a big challenge for me. If I can play against him, I’d love to give it my all and make him doubt me. But maybe he won’t be at his best. It’s hard to trust me even if I’m with He can beat him head-to-head, but I’ll do my best to do that.”
The rise of 17-year-old Littler, who won 10 titles in his first season as a professional, is credited with helping to popularize the sport, but Humphreys is content with becoming world number one this year.
“It was great, very tiring. I enjoyed it and I think I did myself justice,” he said.
“I’ve played in six major finals, won the World Cup (with England), the Match Play and defended the Players Championship final – I can’t say it’s not a success. I’m very proud of the way I’ve handled it” alright. “
