Luke Humphries claimed his ninth European Tour title on Sunday evening, defeating Jonny Clayton 8-6 in the Belgian Darts Open final held in Wieze.
The 31-year-old, currently ranked second in the world, dominated the early stages of the contest by winning six consecutive legs to establish a commanding position.
Despite a spirited comeback from Clayton, nicknamed "The Ferret," Humphries secured the £35,000 winner's prize.
The victory comes amid recent criticism of the player's performances, with Humphries responding to his doubters in characteristically dry fashion following the trophy presentation.
TRENDING
Stories
Videos
Your Say
Clayton collected £15,000 as runner-up after his late rally fell just short.
Influencer Charlie Murphy had recently suggested that Humphries "didn't seem to have that stage aura" any longer, prompting a tongue-in-cheek response from the champion.
"Keep my aura levels up because I have to," Humphries quipped after lifting the trophy. "Keep trying to be the second-best player in the world, apparently."
Luke Humphries claimed his ninth European Tour title on Sunday evening, defeating Jonny Clayton 8-6 in the Belgian Darts Open final held in Wieze
|GETTY
The World No 2 acknowledged the scrutiny he has faced, noting there had been "a lot of stick with the fans" but praised the Belgian crowd for their support throughout the weekend.
His playful dismissal of the criticism demonstrated the mental resilience that has underpinned his success on the European circuit.
The final appeared to be heading for a comfortable conclusion when Humphries raced into a 6-1 advantage, reeling off six legs in succession to seize control of the contest.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Five facts darts fans might not know | PA/GBNEWSHowever, Clayton mounted a remarkable recovery, clawing his way back to 7-6 and putting genuine pressure on his opponent.
"When you are not winning as much, it becomes harder. You feel the nerves and I did in the end there," Humphries admitted afterwards.
The tension was palpable as the World No 2 struggled to close out the match, but he eventually found double 10 to secure the title and end Clayton's spirited resistance.
Humphries reflected candidly on his recent form, stating: "I feel that my game is there, then it's not and then it is.
Luke Humphries was too strong for Jonny Clayton on Sunday night
|GETTY
"My scoring is good and my doubles are not. I got myself under pressure."
The champion paid tribute to the European Tour's importance in his development, describing it as "the greatest tour in the world" and crediting it with shaping him into the player he has become.
Clayton was magnanimous in defeat, acknowledging that Humphries had given him opportunities during the final.
"Great darts player, great person, great asset to darts," the Welshman said of his opponent.