World number one Luke Humphries captured his eighth European Tour crown after defeating Josh Rock 8-5 in Sunday's Czech Darts Open final in Prague. The victory marked Humphries' third triumph at this particular venue.
The Northern Irishman from County Antrim secured an early advantage by breaking throw in the opening leg. However, Humphries responded swiftly with a 12-dart break in the sixth leg before winning three consecutive legs to secure victory.
Superior finishing proved decisive for the defending champion, who capitalised on his checkout opportunities more effectively than his opponent.
Rock had reached the final after impressive victories over former world champion Michael van Gerwen, Jermaine Wattimena and Gian van Veen during his run through the tournament.
Luke Humphries and Luke Littler have huge respect for one another and have dominated the game in recent years
|REUTERS
Following his victory, Humphries offered high praise for the emerging talent in professional darts.
"Josh is the new generation now. Him and Luke Littler are the two who are going to dominate the sport for many, many years," the world number one declared.
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Despite acknowledging the threat posed by these rising stars, Humphries remained confident about his own future prospects. "But I'm going to be a part of it as well," he added.
The 24-year-old Rock has experienced a remarkable ascent through the PDC rankings this year, currently sitting at 11th in the world.
His impressive season includes semi-final appearances at both the World Matchplay and UK Open, establishing himself as a consistent performer at major tournaments.
Josh Rock has been tipped to rival Luke Littler and Luke Humphries
|PA
Rock's breakthrough into the world's top ten arrives despite the disappointment of successive European Tour final defeats.
The County Antrim player fell to world champion Luke Littler in the Flanders Trophy final just one week prior to his loss in Prague.
This latest achievement significantly enhances Rock's chances of securing a Premier League place for next year. His elevated ranking also improves his prospects for selection to World Series events featuring elite players.
The Northern Irishman faces a demanding schedule ahead, with the World Series Finals in Amsterdam next weekend.
The World Grand Prix, another major championship, follows in early October, providing Rock with immediate opportunities to convert his consistent performances into maiden European Tour success.
Humphries acknowledged the emotional significance of ending his barren spell since claiming the Premier League title.
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BULL, S1, BULL!
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) September 6, 2025
Josh Rock - that is outrageous! 🤯
Northern Ireland's number one produces an exhibition 101 checkout to move 4-2 ahead against William O'Connor!
📺 https://t.co/YyBPPwoMK8#ET11 pic.twitter.com/W8p6Zd5Xfx
"It's been a tough three months. Since winning the Premier League, it's felt like I've been struggling a bit here and there," he admitted.
The world number one expressed renewed confidence in his form ahead of crucial upcoming tournaments.
"But now I feel dangerous. I feel like I'm back at my best," Humphries said.
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Luke Humphries and Luke Littler have been sharing finals between them on a regular basis
| PALooking towards the season's remaining challenges, including the Pro Tour and World Series Finals, Humphries emphasised his determination to maintain his ranking.
"You're at the back end of the calendar now and if I want to stay No.1 and be world champion again, I know I have to put in the effort. It all starts from now," he said.