Luke Humphries knows exactly what it takes to conquer the Winter Gardens, but as another Betfred World Matchplay approaches, one respected former champion believes the world number one is ready to do it all over again.
Big tournaments are often decided by tiny moments, and in a field packed with elite talent, backing one player above the rest is never an easy call. That is exactly why Glen Durrant’s latest prediction has caught the attention of darts fans. The three-time Lakeside world champion believes Humphries has what it takes to lift the Phil Taylor Trophy once again, putting his faith in the reigning champion ahead of another demanding week in Blackpool.
For Humphries, the expectation is nothing new.
After a sensational rise to the top of the sport over the last few seasons, he has become the player everyone wants to beat. Winning major titles is difficult enough, but defending them is another challenge entirely. Every opponent arrives believing they can produce the performance of their career against the world number one.
Why Durrant believes in Humphries
Durrant understands the pressure of major tournaments better than most. His own memorable World Matchplay debut in 2019 included stunning victories over Adrian Lewis, Michael van Gerwen and James Wade before eventually falling in the semi-finals. That remarkable run showed just how unforgiving Blackpool can be, even when a player is producing outstanding darts.
That experience makes his support for Humphries particularly meaningful.
Rather than looking elsewhere in a star-studded field, Durrant believes Humphries remains the safest pick because of his consistency, scoring power and ability to produce under pressure when matches become tense.
It’s a compliment that reflects what fans have witnessed over the past two years.
A champion who keeps delivering
Humphries is no longer chasing his first major breakthrough. He has already established himself as one of the sport’s leading figures through a remarkable collection of titles.
His World Matchplay triumph over Michael van Gerwen was another defining moment. In a thrilling final, Humphries held his nerve to win 18-15 and add the famous Blackpool title to an already outstanding résumé.
After that victory, Humphries said: “I am really blessed to be up on this stage in this great sport. To put my name on the Phil Taylor Trophy means the world to me.”
He also added: “I’ve just got to a level where I feel really comfortable. I’ve worked incredibly hard on my game and this is the reward I get for it.”
Those comments perfectly summed up his journey.
Nothing has come easily. Years of steady improvement eventually turned Humphries from a talented prospect into arguably the most complete player in world darts.
The challenge of defending a major title
Winning the World Matchplay once is an incredible achievement.
Winning it again is even harder.
The tournament regularly features the biggest names in the PDC, with long-format matches that test scoring, finishing and mental strength over several sessions.
One poor spell can end a title defence.
One inspired opponent can completely change the tournament.
That is why consistency matters so much in Blackpool, and few players have displayed more of it than Humphries over recent seasons.
His ability to recover when things are not going perfectly has become one of his greatest strengths.
During an earlier World Matchplay campaign, Humphries battled back from 10-7 behind against Dirk van Duijvenbode before winning 14-12 in dramatic fashion.
Reflecting on that comeback, he said: “I felt really flat, but I dug deep, and that’s what champions do.”
He continued: “I’m not saying I am a champion, but sometimes you have to get through these really tough games when you’re not at your best.”
Finally, he added: “Two years ago I would have lost that game 11-5 or 11-6, but I dug in, I gave everything I had and I’m very proud of myself for that.”
Those words highlight perhaps the biggest difference between today’s Humphries and the player fans saw earlier in his career.
He now believes he can win even without producing his absolute best.
Plenty of rivals stand in his way
Of course, no prediction guarantees success.
The World Matchplay has become one of the deepest tournaments in professional darts, with several players capable of putting together a title-winning week.
Michael van Gerwen remains a major threat whenever he enters Blackpool, while Luke Littler continues to raise the standard every time he steps onto the biggest stages. Established stars and dangerous outsiders also know they have enough quality to challenge for the title if they find their rhythm.
That is exactly what makes Durrant’s backing so interesting.
Choosing Humphries isn’t simply about recent results. It is about trusting the player who has repeatedly shown he can handle expectation, survive difficult moments and produce world-class darts when the pressure reaches its highest point.
Another defining week awaits
The World Matchplay has a habit of creating unforgettable stories.
Some champions announce themselves to the world in Blackpool. Others confirm their greatness by winning again.
Humphries now has the opportunity to strengthen his growing legacy even further.
Durrant’s confidence reflects what many fans are thinking. When a player combines relentless scoring, improving resilience and proven success on the biggest stages, it becomes difficult to look beyond him as one of the favourites.
Whether Humphries justifies that backing will only be decided once the darts start flying at the Winter Gardens.
One thing is certain, though: every defending champion carries a target on their back, and Humphries will need another week of elite performances if he is to prove Durrant right and leave Blackpool with the Phil Taylor Trophy once again.
Do you agree with Glen Durrant’s prediction, or do you think another star will lift the World Matchplay title this year? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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