Darts
2024 World Matchplay: Luke Humphries Explains Mocking Dimitri Van den Bergh's Unusual Celebration
Luke Humphries beats Dimitri Van den Bergh 10-6 sets up World Matchplay semi against friend James Wade.
Luke Humphries emerged victorious in a thrilling 10-6 World Matchplay quarterfinal against Dimitri Van den Bergh, setting the stage for a highly anticipated semifinal clash with former World Matchplay champion James Wade.
The match was marked by Van den Bergh’s slow play and unusual celebration, reminiscent of his antics in the 2024 UK Open final where he had defeated Humphries.
That Unusual Dimi Celebration
Reflecting on the match, Humphries commented on Van den Bergh’s uncharacteristic celebration. “I felt when Dimitri hit the second 180 and he did the shoulder roll, I thought that's such an unnatural reaction,” he told SportsBoom.com.
“Usually, he'd give it a ‘come on’ and the sort of was giving it a bit of swag and I thought, well if this goes in, I'm giving it back.”
True to his word, Humphries mimicked Van den Bergh’s celebration immediately, which seemed to backfire on his opponent.
Heated Up Humphries
“As soon as he did it, I thought you’re going to get it back and I was pretty revved up after that. It could have been a big mistake for him to do that because he went pretty flat, and I just went on to rip up the last five legs. Maybe that was his mistake in the game.”
Humphries, known for his composed demeanour, revealed a different side of himself during the match.
“To be honest, I'm not shy to celebrate. I’m just not one of them players who you see celebrate a lot. But I’m not shy to it, I just don’t like to give too much away.”
Image credit: PDC
Friendship with James Wade
Looking ahead to his semifinal match, Humphries shared his thoughts on his surprising friendship with James Wade.
“We are good friends to be honest; he won't like me saying that because you don't like anybody calling me a friend, but we are.”
“We’ve been practising together all week. I’m gutted that I’m playing him because I’d rather be playing him in the final so I could get some more practice in before Saturday.”
One of the Greats
Humphries expressed great respect for Wade, considering him one of the most underestimated players in darts.
“He’s a player not to underestimate. I know how mentally strong he is, and if I’m not the one to go on and lift it, it wouldn’t surprise me if it’s him.”
He also shared his hope for Wade’s return to prominence. “It would be nice to see James back at the top and in the Premier League and World Series events. He’s got another major in him yet, he’s definitely not finished in this sport.”
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