sportskeeda
LUKE HUMPHRIES aims to experience that “unique feeling” of being a multiple world darts champion by the time he concludes his career in the sport.
Nonetheless, Cool Hand Luke admits that he wasn’t adequately prepared for the level of attention and prominence that comes with winning the Sid Waddell Trophy for the first time.
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Only six players have secured the title more than once, with only Phil Taylor, Adrian Lewis, and Gary Anderson managing to defend their title successfully.
The current world champion, Humphries, is keen on becoming a member of this exclusive club, possibly on January 3rd.
The No. 1 seed stated: “If I were to step away from this sport tomorrow, I’d carry immense pride in what I’ve achieved.
“Every young player dreams of becoming the world champion — yet not everyone can reach that goal. I have.
“So, even if I never become a world champion again, I’d still take great satisfaction in retiring in 20 years with that honor. It’s a lifetime accomplishment.
“Of course, I wish to win more. There’s something uniquely fulfilling about being a two-time or three-time world champion, rather than just a one-time winner.
“I truly aspire for more success. But you must be realistic about the future and what it may bring.
“Winning again is a desire since many have only been world champions once in history. However, being a double world champion is indeed a rarity.”
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Humphries’ quest to retain his world title continues on Friday as he takes on unseeded Welshman Nick Kenny in the third round.
He expressed: “We are now entering the pivotal stages of the tournament, so it’s crucial to care for oneself and avoid excess during the Christmas season.
Luke Humphries pays tribute to Luke Littler as he displays his sportsmanship after winning the Players Championship Finals
“I enjoyed a lovely Christmas dinner. But I’ll ensure that I return in both a physically and mentally strong state.
“My goal is to place myself in an excellent position to chase after becoming a back-to-back world champion.”
A father of two, Humphries—who turns 30 in February—has used his considerable earnings to purchase a new house and treat himself to a BMW i7 priced over £100,000.
I truly aspire for more success. But you must be realistic about the future and what it may bring.
Luke Humphries
This year, he has spent over 200 days away from home representing the sport.
One significant event included a visit to No. 10 Downing Street last January, where he played darts with former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Humphries, who hails from Berkshire and currently lives in Cheshire, has been an exceptional ambassador for the sport, as reflected in his interactions with the public.
The world No. 1 noted: “It’s typically more demanding the second time around — last year, I ventured into the unknown. I had no idea what to expect.
“I’ve relished the benefits of being a world champion. People greet me, shake my hand, and praise my accomplishments.
“It has positively transformed my life and will stay with me forever, a lasting source of pride.
“It’s heartening when strangers approach me in stores and say, ‘The way you carry yourself is impressive.’ They share in my joy over my success, which is wonderful to hear.
“There’s no manual for this. You don’t receive training on how to deal with it. You learn through experience.
“Suddenly, you find yourself in a setting that seems strange.
“Life can change quickly, and in the last 15 months, mine has evolved significantly. I’ve achieved a lot in a brief period.
“When you’re in different hotels each week, you can’t get the same restful sleep as you would at home.
“But what would you prefer? To be a world champion or to complain about traveling?”
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