Luke Humphries, ranked number one in the world, faced significant challenges during the Grand Slam of Darts. Ahead of his last-16 match, he experienced “crippling pain” from a suspected back spasm, raising concerns about his ability to compete.
Injury and Remarkable Performance
Despite his severe discomfort, Humphries delivered an impressive performance, taking a commanding 5-0 lead against Jurjen Van der Velde. He maintained an average of over 117 and ultimately secured a 10-3 victory.
Humphries shared details of his ordeal with Sky Sports, revealing he had to undergo three hours of physiotherapy. “When I woke up this morning, I couldn’t lift my head off the pillow. I thought I might have to pull out because my back was so bad,” he explained. His physio, Mandy, played a crucial role in preparing him for the match.
Upcoming Quarter-Final
Humphries will face fellow competitor Michael Smith in the quarter-finals. Smith himself struggled with pain but managed to survive a dramatic encounter with Chris Dobey, where 18 match darts were missed before he clinched the victory.
Humphries’ Resilience
Humphries expressed disbelief at his ability to compete under such conditions. “It’s crazy how you can perform like that with an injury. I was never going to give in,” he remarked. This fighting spirit is what continues to make him a formidable presence on the stage.
Expert Insights
Mark Webster, a commentator for Sky Sports Darts, commented on Humphries’ performance, noting that despite visible discomfort, he executed a polished display. “He looked uncomfortable on the walk-on and seemed a bit rigid, but then he got off to an absolute flyer,” Webster stated. He emphasized that Humphries’ resolve has kept him a key player in the tournament.
Looking Ahead
The Grand Slam of Darts continues, with additional matches scheduled for Thursday. The tournament will feature competitors like Luke Littler and Michael van Gerwen, all aiming for a spot in the quarter-finals.
- Date: Thursday, November 13
- Time: 19:00 (Sky Sports + and Sky Sports Main Event)
- Matches Include:
- Lukas Wenig vs. Niko Springer
- Josh Rock vs. Connor Scutt
- Luke Littler vs. Wessel Nijman
- Michael van Gerwen vs. Danny Noppert
Humphries’ fight against pain and his determination to deliver thrilling performances exemplify his status as a leading figure in the darts world. Fans eagerly await his next bout as the tournament unfolds.
