Rob Cross lost out 16-8 in the final of the 2023 Grand Slam of Darts with Luke Humphries winning his second major title in 42 days in a final often seen this year on the European Tour as two of the most consistent players collided.
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For Cross though, he was honest in defeat and said that the better player won and that while it hurts, it's how he regroups next that will be the main test.
In saying that, he set his sights firmly on next weekend which sees the Players Championship Finals which is the last major tournament before the World Darts Championship at the Alexandra Palace.
"The best man won on the night, no doubt about it - he was fantastic," said Cross. "I gave it my best but I lost to the better man - he played great. The crowds have been amazing and so respectful, and I've really enjoyed going up there and trying to produce my best stuff in front of them.
"Sometimes you don't always get what you want in life, and sometimes you have to take it on the chin. It's a little bit hurtful to lose but he was excellent tonight.
"I've had a good week and I'll come back. I'm playing great at the minute and I'm in a really good place. I'll regroup and go into next week with the ambitions to win that."
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of DartsNews.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy across professional darts coverage. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces, playing a central role in the development and daily operation of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has extensive experience in darts media and has been closely involved in coverage of the professional darts circuit for several years. Within the UK darts community, he is a recognised figure known for his consistent editorial output and ongoing reporting on major tournaments and developments across the PDC calendar.
In his current role, Samuel works closely with editors and writers to ensure content meets clear journalistic standards, with a focus on source verification, editorial consistency, and timely updates when new, confirmed information becomes available.
LUKE HUMPHRIES HAS DONE IT AGAIN 🏆🏆
It's a second major TV title for Luke Humphries in just 42 days as he devastates Rob Cross with one of the very best final displays to win the Grand Slam!
16-8 scoreline, 104.69 average and 59.6% on the doubles.
Simply breathtaking 🙌