2024 World Grand Prix Darts: Luke Humphries is a Better World Champion than Michael van Gerwen, says James Wade

Veteran darts star James Wade has waded into the ongoing discussion surrounding whether Luke Humphries is getting the recognition he deserves, an argument first sparked by Gary Anderson during the 2024 World Grand Prix. 

Wade, fresh from a commanding 3-0 victory over Welsh powerhouse Gerwyn Price to secure his spot in the tournament’s quarterfinals, had one main topic on his mind post-match, current world number one, Luke Humphries.

Humphries has become the centre of a debate questioning whether the media and public are giving him the attention his talent warrants. 

Wade’s relationship with Humphries goes beyond the oche, having trained together as recently as this summer in Blackpool, ahead of the 2024 World Matchplay. This connection, Wade revealed, has given him a unique insight into just how special the 29-year-old is.

"I'm an old boy and I know I can push anyone like him. I know I can push him," Wade declared, underscoring his belief that he has played a role in Humphries’ development. 

"It’s very rare that you come along the generational thing where someone’s this special, and he is that special."

Echoing Anderson’s earlier sentiments, Wade expressed frustration that Humphries is not receiving the praise and airtime he deserves.

Without mentioning names, Wade suggested that other players, likely alluding to teenage sensation Luke Littler, are being thrust into the spotlight more often than Humphries, despite not matching his skill level.

"I believe the press should be building him up more because he’s bloody good," Wade said bluntly, before going on to express disappointment at how the sport is missing an opportunity to promote one of its brightest talents. 

"In any other sport in the world, we’d grab it, and we would be like, 'Look at this guy, he’s amazing.' But instead, we’re publicising other people that aren’t quite as amazing and it’s quite sad," Wade told SportsBoom.com. 

Image credit: PDC