Importance Score: 40 / 100 🔵
Luke Humphries Defends Luke Littler After World Cup of Darts Criticism
Following accusations of “letting his country down” at the recent World Cup of Darts, Luke Humphries has responded to criticism leveled at him and his teammate, Luke Littler. The pair, representing England, entered the competition as strong favorites but suffered a shocking early exit against Germany.
England’s Early Exit and Subsequent Reactions
Despite receiving a bye into the knockout stages, the English team performed below expectations, succumbing to an 8-4 defeat. This loss occurred shortly after both players were awarded MBEs, prompting darts analyst Dennis Priestley to question their worthiness of the honor. Priestley also suggested their performance had “let their country down,” marking it as the tournament’s most significant upset. Luke Humphries wasted no time using social media to defend Littler despite their disappointing showing in Frankfurt.
Humphries’ Social Media Response
“Disappointing to hear a top former pro who I admired say such a damaging thing to me and Luke,” Humphries, known as “Cool Hand,” posted on X (formerly Twitter).
4K Ultra HD Portable Foldable Projector Screen 100/120 Inch 16:9 with Stand & Carry Bag, Lightweight 1.5 Gain Polyester Material for Indoor Outdoor Home Theater ...
? Coupon price [$42.96]
[Stylish PU Jacket] Stylish Modern Mens Outdoor PU Jacket - Warm Fleece-Lined Motorcycle Coat, Tough Guy
? Coupon price [$34.29]
UNZHUO MAKE Mens High-Top Camouflage Work Boots - Non-Slip, Durable for Hiking, Outdoor & Mountaineering, Nylon Upper, Rubber Sole, EVA Insole
? Coupon price [$48.40]
“I didn’t let my country down last year tho did I? One bad game for us and we will back next year to go again. Let’s move on now.”
Littler’s Initial Reaction
Littler also initially responded to Priestley with a sharp message on Instagram, which he later removed. The post stated: “Doesn’t deserve an MBE but done more in 12 months than he ever did… that’s what I would say anyway.”
Priestley’s Critique of the England Team
Priestley, a two-time World Darts Champion, didn’t mince words when reflecting on England’s unsuccessful World Cup campaign, criticizing both Humphries and Littler.
Priestley’s Remarks on Team Dynamics
“Luke Littler and Luke Humphries let their country down at the World Cup of Darts,” Priestley stated. “From what we’ve heard, they weren’t sitting together or practising together.”
He added, “When I was playing in pairs with Phil Taylor we practised together and sat together, we played all over the world and I only remember us getting beaten once.”
Debate Over MBE Awards
When asked about his opinion on the England duo’s recognition in the King’s Birthday Honours, Priestley expressed reservations:
“To be brutally honest, I don’t think either Luke Littler or Luke Humphries have done enough to earn their MBEs just yet.”
“I think in time they could’ve done enough to warrant it but it feels very early. They have both won one World Championship each and are still young in their careers.”
Priestley concluded: “Littler has been recognised for raising the popularity of darts which is great, but he can still do so much more. If he is getting an MBE this soon then you’d have to think he is on the right path to a knighthood. Nothing would surprise me now.”