PDC World Masters 2025: ‘Former or Current, I’m Always a World Champion’, says Luke Humphries

World number one Luke Humphries returned to the PDC ranking stage in style following a disappointing World Championship campaign. Humphries, who was unable to defend the title he won in 2024, bowing out in the last 16 after a loss to two-time champion Peter Wright.

However, he wasted no time in putting that setback behind him, launching his PDC World Masters campaign with a commanding 3-1 victory over former Masters champion Joe Cullen.

‘Former’ or ‘Current’ World Champion

This season presents a different dynamic for Humphries—no longer the reigning world champion, but still holding the prestigious world number one ranking. 

After his opening match, we caught up with him to ask whether he feels less pressure now that he’s no longer being introduced as the reigning world champion.

For ‘Cool Hand Luke’, the distinction between "former" and "current" world champion is irrelevant—the title will always be his.

“No, not at all. For me, former or current means the same. You're a world champion and that'll always live with me,” Humphries said. 

“If I never win another one, I've always got one to look back on.”

Premier League is the Main Target

Reflecting on his career so far, Humphries acknowledged that he has already achieved most of the milestones he set for himself when he turned professional. 

While adding the World Masters to his collection would be another box ticked, his primary goal for the season is securing the Premier League title.

“I think for me most of my achievements have been unlocked, but of course I don't want to settle on one.”

“Premier League is at the top of the agenda. I would have liked to win all three Triple Crowns in the same year, but that’s not doable now. I just want to add the Premier League to my worlds and World Matchplay.”

“It's a massive season ahead—there are so many games, so many tournaments, so many battles to come.”

Passing the Torch to Luke Littler

While Humphries is no longer the world champion, that honour now belongs to teenage sensation Luke Littler, who defeated Michael van Gerwen in the 2025 final at Alexandra Palace. 

Although, Humphries remains determined to retain his world number one status.

“Of course I want to keep that, but I have to win more to be number one.”

With Littler now taking centre stage as the sport’s main star, we asked Humphries whether he feels relieved to have some of the attention diverted away from him. He acknowledged that Littler is now the main focus, but believes this could work to his advantage.

“I don't really look into it much. Luke's [Littler] the world champion, so everyone's going to talk about him regardless. But yeah, I think I get my fair share.”

“I'm just happy to be in the background and just be the guy that turns up. Everyone knows I’m dangerous. So, I'm really happy with my life. I'm just going to continue to work.”

Humphries may no longer hold the world title, but with his relentless drive and hunger for success, he remains one of the most formidable players on the circuit.