09/04/2024

Danny Noppert defeats world champion Luke Humphries in final of Players Championship 8

Danny Noppert took the title in sensational fashion at the eighth Players Championship tournament of the year. 'The Freeze' defeated world champion Luke Humphries to win a Players Championship tournament for the fifth time in his career.

The Dutchman won earlier in his first two rounds against Robert Owen (6-3) and Jim Williams (6-2), before Noppert had to work hard in the last 32. He trailed 4-5 against Stephen Burton, but still managed to come through 6-5.

Prize Money breakdown for 2024 Players Championship season with increased prize pool of £3,750,000

Then a big test awaited against former world champion Gerwyn Price, but the Welshman was defeated 6-3. Then Kevin Doets (6-3) and Radek Szaganski (7-2) could not give Noppert a hard time.

However, the former UK Open champion had yet to beat the man in form, Luke Humphries. 'Cool Hand Luke' had dealt with the likes of Jeffrey de Zwaan (6-1), Chris Dobey (6-5), Gary Anderson (6-4) and Gian van Veen (7-6) on his way to the final.

In the final, Humphries took a 3-1 lead via a 12-darter, but with three good legs, Noppert retook the lead. Humphries had three chances to break Noppert in the 11th leg, but missed his chances. A 20-darter then took 'The Freeze' to 6-5. Moments later it was 7-6 after Noppert hit 72. Humphries started the fourteenth leg, but was not out in five visits. Then Noppert managed to take the title with a 64 finish.