Luke Humphries said becoming world darts champion was a moment made even more satisfying by knowing he's had to overcome mental health troubles.
The 28-year-old from Newbury defeated teenage sensation Luke Littler 7-4 in Wednesday's final, coming back from 4-2 down to claim the title.
"It makes it more incredible for myself mentally," he told Sky Sports, "because there was a time in my life when I was really depressed and I didn't think this was going to be it for me.
"I couldn't do it up on the big stage and went through a lot of problems. To go on now and be number one and world champion, it's proved a lot about my mental abilities."
"There was a time in my life when I was really depressed..." 💭
Luke Humphries explains what he's been through ahead of becoming world champion 💙 pic.twitter.com/IAgZHsR8qu
— Sky Sports Darts (@SkySportsDarts) January 3, 2024
In the post-match press conference, Humphries added that speaking openly about his troubles "definitely helped me because it was a weight off my shoulders".
"I'm not the only sportsman in the world who goes through it," he continued.
"I'm definitely not the only person in this room that goes through it. I was very open and honest about it because it was affecting my career and it was hard to hold it in.
"There have been lots of people on social media who've said 'You've really inspired me and helped me'. That makes me feel great. I didn't do it because of that. I did it because I wanted to be open and honest. All of a sudden I had celebrities and sports stars that messaged me and said that they go through the same."
Luke Humphries fulfils his darting destiny... 🏆
World number one. World Champion.
Luke Humphries has capped the most incredible year by lifting the 2023/24 Paddy Power World Darts Championship 👏 pic.twitter.com/oLGYR6ilTy
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) January 3, 2024
Along with claiming the Sid Waddell trophy, Humphries also won the Ballon d'Art for throwing the most 180s in the tournament. World Darts Championship sponsor Paddy Power pledged to donate £1,000 to Prostate Cancer UK for every 180 landed. There were 914 in total. The cause is one close to Humphries's heart as his father-in-law was diagnosed with prostate cancer.
"I'll donate a bit myself from the prize money," said Humphries, who earned £500,000 for winning the title.
"It's very, very close to my heart. I'm privileged to hold that trophy as well. It's got a special place to go to. My father-in-law, who has battled prostate cancer, went and got checked out. He's found it early. This was a close thing to my heart and I'm dedicating that one to him."
Humphries will also use some of the prize money to thank the people of his home town who helped him on his journey.
"The Crucible [Sports and Social Club] was the big one," he said.
"I used to practice there all the time and I learnt my trade there. They've had a few nights where people have gone down and watched me on the big screen.
"I'm probably going back to Newbury this weekend, go down there, open the bar up, and [thank] the people that deserve to celebrate this with me.
"That was one thing I thought about, that if I win this world title, I want to celebrate with all the people I've grown up with throughout the years who've helped me get to this position."
If you, or someone you know, has been affected by the topics touched upon in this article, you can contact the Samaritans freephone at 116 123.
See Also: Luke Littler Showed Why He Is So Special With Honest Comments After World Darts Final Loss
