Two-time former champion Wright turned the formbook upside down to stun big favourite Humphries, who was well below par in a 4-1 defeat.
Wright, 54, who lifted the crown in 2020 and 2022, fought back the tears after a convincing win in which he averaged nearly 101 and hit 70 per cent of his doubles.
After producing a 12-dart break to open up a 3-1 lead, Wright kept his foot to the floor, making back-to-back 13-dart finishes and then a 14-darter to close out the match in stunning fashion.
The world number 17 said afterwards: “Luke gave me a load of chances there, he didn’t play like he can.
“I’ve never had support like this in my life, thank you all. It’s amazing. I’ve been struggling for form all year and it’s so annoying because I know I can still play darts.
This story is from the December 30, 2024 edition of The Independent.
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This story is from the December 30, 2024 edition of The Independent.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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