Quick Read
- Luke Littler and Luke Humphries face off in the World Grand Prix final tonight at Leicester’s Mattioli Arena.
- Both players are ranked world number one and two; winner takes home £120,000.
- The tournament uses a unique double-in format, adding tactical depth.
- Humphries leads 3-1 in major finals, while Littler has the overall head-to-head advantage.
- Tonight’s match is the fifth major final between the two Lukes.
World Grand Prix Darts Final: Littler vs Humphries—Rivalry Reaches Its Peak
Tonight, the Mattioli Arena in Leicester vibrates with anticipation. The World Grand Prix Darts 2025 final brings together two names every darts fan now knows by heart: Luke Littler and Luke Humphries. They are more than just competitors—they are the story of darts in this new era.
Two Titans, One Stage: A Rivalry Forged in Lightning
In less than two years, Littler and Humphries have met 24 times on the professional circuit, sharing stages from the Premier League to the World Championship. Humphries, who claimed his first major in 2023, arrives tonight chasing his ninth title. Littler, still considered a relative newcomer, enters the final with six major wins, and each match between them has become a modern classic.
As BBC Sport details, their head-to-head record tips in Littler’s favor—14 wins to Humphries’ 10. Yet, when it comes to major finals, Humphries leads 3-1. Their encounters are never predictable; every leg is a battle of nerves, skill, and determination.
Road to the Final: Drama, Upsets, and Records
This year’s World Grand Prix has not disappointed. Littler’s campaign started with a statement—his 105.58 average in the first round against Dutch prodigy Gian van Veen was the third highest in tournament history. Van Veen, despite setting a record average of 106.47, fell to Littler, marking the first time a player lost with an average above 97.8 in this event.
Humphries, meanwhile, has shown remarkable consistency. He edged out Nathan Aspinall, overcame Krzysztof Ratajski, and bested Danny Noppert in the semi-final. Littler’s path included a dramatic win over Gerwyn Price and a convincing 5-1 semi-final victory against Jonny Clayton.
Their performances have set up tonight’s clash as the fifth major final between the two Lukes—a rivalry that is quickly becoming the centerpiece of darts.
The Format: Double-In Drama
The World Grand Prix is unique in its double-in format. Players must both start and finish each leg on a double or the bullseye, adding an extra layer of pressure and tactical depth. As Sky Sports explains, the final will be played as best of 11 sets, with each set contested over five legs.
This format has produced historic moments. Brendan Dolan famously hit the first nine-dart leg in the double-start format in 2011, earning the nickname ‘The History Maker.’ In 2014, James Wade and Robert Thornton both threw nine-darters in the same match—an event still talked about in darts circles.
Prize Money and Stakes: More Than Just Glory
The stakes tonight are not just pride and ranking. The winner will take home £120,000, while the runner-up claims £60,000. The overall prize pool for the event is £600,000, with plans to increase this to £750,000 in 2026. For both Littler and Humphries, tonight’s victory could further cement their legacy and boost their standing in the PDC Order of Merit.
Currently, Humphries sits atop the Order of Merit with £1,736,250, and could push this to £1,796,250 with a win. Littler, not far behind at £1,605,500, would reach £1,665,500 if victorious. Their battle for world number one is as close as it gets.
The Atmosphere: More Than Just a Match
As the final approaches, the arena is alive with chants, signs, and the unmistakable energy of a darts crowd. Both Lukes are crowd favorites, but their styles offer a fascinating contrast. Littler, dubbed “The Nuke,” is explosive, unpredictable, and charismatic. Humphries, on the other hand, embodies cool determination and tactical brilliance.
Fans and experts alike can’t agree on a favorite. Some, like commentator Wayne Mardle, predict a narrow victory for Humphries. Others, including former world champion Mark Webster, see Littler’s momentum carrying him to a win. Social media buzzes with opinions, predictions, and memories of past showdowns.
Legacy and Perspective: Giants of the Modern Game
Looking back, the World Grand Prix has crowned legends. Phil Taylor, with 11 titles, stands as the event’s most successful player. Michael van Gerwen has six. Recent winners include Mike De Decker (2024), Humphries (2023), and Jonny Clayton (2021). The tradition is rich, but tonight’s match feels like a changing of the guard.
Both Littler and Humphries represent the future of darts. Their rivalry has brought new fans to the sport, and their personalities have made each match a must-watch event. Whether tonight ends with Littler closing the gap or Humphries extending his reign, darts is the real winner.
What’s Next?
The World Grand Prix is just one stop in a packed darts calendar. Next up is the Grand Slam of Darts in Wolverhampton, followed by the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace—a tournament already promising record prize money and a record field.
But for now, all eyes are on Leicester. The final begins at 8pm, with live coverage available on Sky Sports+ and Sky Sports Main Event. For those unable to tune in, the Sky Sports app offers live scores, highlights, and expert analysis throughout the night.
As fans settle in for what promises to be an electrifying evening, one question lingers: will it be Littler’s explosive brilliance or Humphries’ steady hand that prevails?
Tonight’s World Grand Prix final isn’t just about numbers, averages, or titles—it’s a testament to the evolution of darts, where every throw carries the weight of rivalry, legacy, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Regardless of the outcome, the sport is witnessing a new golden era, driven by two remarkable athletes whose battles will shape darts for years to come.