Luke Littler marked a memorable milestone in his career by winning his first match as the newly crowned world number one at the Players Championship Finals 2025, while Dutch star Gian van Veen continued his remarkable streak against Luke Humphries with a second dramatic comeback in under a month.

Gian van Veen’s Stunning Comeback Against Luke Humphries

Gian van Veen showcased his trademark resilience in Minehead, overturning a 3-0 deficit to defeat defending champion Luke Humphries 6-5. The match was a rollercoaster of tension, with Humphries initially dominating the scoreboard, registering impressive checkouts of 145, 40, and 83. However, Van Veen’s composure under pressure was undeniable, hitting crucial finishes of 161 and 81 on the bullseye to claw his way back into contention.

Despite losing throw at 4-4 and missing opportunities to close out the match, Van Veen capitalized on Humphries’ missed darts in the deciding leg to secure a fourth consecutive victory over the Englishman. This win marks another chapter in Van Veen’s growing reputation as one of darts’ most formidable young talents.

For Humphries, it has been a challenging month. Earlier in November, he surrendered his world number one ranking to Littler following a loss in the Grand Slam of Darts 2025 final, adding to the pressure he now faces in defending his titles.

Luke Littler Shines as New World Number One

Meanwhile, Luke Littler, the 18-year-old sensation from England, cruised into the second round of the Players Championship Finals 2025 with a commanding 6-1 victory over Jeffrey de Graaf. Making his debut as the official world number one, Littler averaged an impressive 104.46, demonstrating why he is now at the pinnacle of the sport.

“It felt absolutely amazing, probably one of the best feelings I’ve had, to be world champion and world number one at the same time — but there is more to come,” Littler told ITV Sport. “This is the title I haven’t won yet. Last year I came up short against Luke Humphries, so I want to tick this one off.”

Littler will face Ross Smith in the second round, after Smith defeated Ryan Meikle 6-1 in a straightforward contest.

Key Results from the Players Championship Finals

• Gerwyn Price, the tournament’s top seed, overcame Max Hopp 6-2 despite missing six darts while trying to take a 5-2 lead.
• Stephen Bunting cruised to a 6-2 win over Ritchie Edhouse.
• Nathan Aspinall dispatched Karel Sedlacek 6-3.
• Four-time world champion Raymond van Barneveld was eliminated with a 6-3 defeat at the hands of Krzysztof Ratajski.
• Other notable upsets included James Hurrell defeating former finalist Jonny Clayton, with an impressive 99.2 average, while Rob Cross and Dave Chisnall also suffered losses.
• World number six James Wade comfortably progressed, defeating Mickey Mansell 6-3.

The Players Championship Finals 2025 continues to deliver high drama and surprises, with emerging talents like Luke Littler and Gian van Veen challenging the established stars of darts. Fans can expect more intense matches as the tournament progresses.