“Prescribed antibiotics… Hopefully feeling better by Friday” – Luke Humphries forced into doctor’s visit after battling flu Down Under

Luke Humphries’ disappointing exit at the Australian Darts Masters last weekend was no surprise once the world number one revealed he had been battling a nasty flu throughout the tournament.

The 30-year-old Englishman opened the Wollongong event strongly, easing past Jonny Tata 6–3 in the opening round. But in the quarter-finals, Humphries was comprehensively outplayed by Mike De Decker, suffering a heavy 6–0 defeat. Those close to the tournament noted Humphries’ subdued body language, including a restrained fist bump to the referee and opponent — a rare sign of his uncharacteristic low energy.

Humphries later confirmed his condition was behind the performance. Speaking from Auckland, where he travelled immediately after Wollongong for the next World Series event, the New Zealand Darts Masters, he told fans: “Thanks to everyone for the messages asking how I’m doing after not feeling well these last few days. I’ve got bad flu and have spent most of my time resting in bed," he wrote on his Instagram account. "I saw a doctor here in New Zealand today and was prescribed antibiotics to help me recover. Hopefully I’ll be feeling better in time for Friday’s matches.”

‘Cool Hand Luke’ had already enjoyed some success on the World Series circuit this year, winning the US Darts Masters in June with an 8–6 victory over Nathan Aspinall at Madison Square Garden. But this latest health setback shows how even the top players are vulnerable to the relentless demands of a global darts calendar.

The New Zealand Darts Masters represents the final regular event before the World Series Finals in Amsterdam in September, making fitness and form all the more crucial for those chasing the title and valuable ranking points.

For now, all eyes will be on Humphries’ recovery as he looks to bounce back quickly and defend his standing as one of the game’s elite.