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Littler Backs Humphries’ Concerns Over Darts Schedule Strain
Teenage sensation Luke Littler has voiced his agreement with fellow darts player Luke Humphries after the world number one criticised the demanding professional darts schedule. Humphries recently competed in a European Tour event, a tournament which Littler chose to miss.
Humphries Expresses “Emotional Drain”
Humphries, the top-ranked player, caused a stir on Saturday when he described himself as “emotionally drained,” suggesting that competing currently felt like a “chore.” Despite these sentiments, Humphries progressed to the semi-finals of the German event, ultimately losing to Stephen Bunting, who claimed the title.
Littler Supports Rival’s Viewpoint
Responding to Humphries’ remarks, Littler, often considered his primary rival, commented: “It’s concerning to witness a player of Luke Humphries’ calibre, the world number one, acknowledge he is struggling.”
Price Echoes Schedule Concerns
Similar to Humphries, Gerwyn Price, another Premier League participant, has also raised concerns regarding the packed calendar. Littler elaborated on this, stating: “I completely concur with him, and Gerwyn Price expressed similar sentiments last night. It’s challenging, particularly when players face travel to locations without direct flights and subsequently need to take trains to reach venues.”
Littler further suggested: “I believe Luke recognises the need to manage his schedule and perhaps prioritise the Premier League. This is why I have taken breaks this year, opting out of the last two European Tour events.”
Recalling a recent encounter, Littler added: “After competing against Luke in the Premier League night final in Newcastle a couple of weeks ago, we both admitted to feeling fatigued. Our averages in that match were around 94 (93.62 and 93.31), and I was simply pleased to secure the victory.”
Premier League Intensifies Demands
For the eight participants in the Premier League Darts, the current period represents the most intense phase of the darts season, with frequent competitions throughout the week. Alongside Premier League commitments, players such as Humphries, Littler, and Price have also been participating in Players Championship events and European Tour tournaments.
Humphries’ Candid Admission
Addressing the issue publicly, Humphries stated on Saturday: “When I am on stage, I just feel devoid of emotion. It’s a strange sensation, and I am being honest with the fans. My emotions feel erratic. It’s not that I dislike being here—it simply feels like a chore at the moment. There is an excessive amount of darts. I am competing too much. I believe I require a respite. I am emotionless, which is detrimental to my mental wellbeing.”
Social Media Backlash and Reflection
Following some negative responses on social media, Humphries responded, explaining: “Considering the comments, people misunderstanding my meaning… This will be the last instance I openly share my true feelings with the public. Everything I express or do never seems satisfactory to anyone. Perhaps everyone will be content when we all provide identical, robotic answers in interviews, devoid of genuine emotion. Then, I suppose, everyone will be pleased, or, more likely, still find grounds for complaint.”
Humphries is scheduled to resume competition on Thursday night for night 10 of the Premier League in Manchester.