"I did not label them lazy" – James Wade clarifies comments on Luke Littler and Luke Humphries

Luke Littler and Luke Humphries have established themselves as two of the best players in darts today. Both have demonstrated their ability to produce at a sensational level, proving they are the cream of the crop in the sport.

However, James Wade recently addressed claims that he called Littler and Humphries lazy, clarifying his true stance on their work ethic and standing in the game.

Luke Littler and Luke Humphries are at the top of the darting world right now

Littler’s meteoric rise has been nothing short of incredible. His scoring is elite, his finishing is clinical, and he remains composed under pressure. The young sensation is looking to carry his momentum from his World Championship win into a strong 2025 season.

His stats over the past 12 months highlight his dominance:

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• 99.45 average
• 843 180s
• 41.43% checkout success rate

Not many players can match his consistency, but Humphries certainly can. The current world number one has proven to be just as dangerous and has set the standard for the rest of the field.

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Wade responds to 'lazy' comment claims

James Wade

In his personal column for the Daily Star, James Wade hit back at the misinterpretation of his comments, firmly denying that he had called Littler and Humphries lazy.

"While the on-stage drama unfolded, it seems I inadvertently stirred up some off-stage controversy. Let's set the record straight: I did not, as some have claimed, label the Lukes, Littler and Humphries, as lazy. In fact, I hold them in high regard."

Wade clarified his stance, explaining that while both players are phenomenal talents, they are not yet at the level of peak Phil Taylor or Michael van Gerwen.

"What I did say, and truly believe, was that while both the Lukes are not as yet at the level of Phil Taylor and Michael Van Gerwen at their peak, they are phenomenal players."

He also emphasised the need for all players, including himself, to put in more effort to compete with the very best.

"For the rest of us, if we want to reach a level where we can compete with the two Lukes in their current form and Michael at his best, we need to be a little less lazy – and I include myself in that – and up our game to compete at the standard they have set.

"It’s all about being prepared to put the work in – which Phil and Michael have done to an incredible level in the past – to get to a standard where you can compete in these major televised tournaments and ultimately win them."

As the tour heats up, the darting world is buzzing with anticipation for a strong 2025. Littler, Humphries, and Wade, all with their unique strengths and skills, are poised to make their mark. The stage is set for an exciting year in darts.

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