'That's why he's world number one' - Nathan Aspinall full of praise for Luke Humphries after US Darts Masters final

Nathan Aspinall had to settle for the runner-up spot at this weekend’s US Darts Masters. The Asp produced a string of excellent performances at Madison Square Garden in New York, but was ultimately edged out by the world number one Luke Humphries in the final.

The 33-year-old from Stockport only had averages well above 100 on his way to the final. In the first round, the then still ill Aspinall defeated Matt Campbell (6-2) thanks to an average of 104.68.

He then faced teenage sensation and good friend Luke Littler in a high-quality clash. The Nuke averaged a staggering 108.69, but Aspinall bettered him with 105.88 and claimed a 6–4 victory in an all-English battle. That was followed by a 7–3 semi-final win over Damon Heta, where Aspinall averaged 102.00 to book his place in the final in the Big Apple.

In the decider, Aspinall recovered well from an early 3–0 deficit, but the win went the way of the world number one as Humphries secured an 8–6 triumph. Still, there was plenty of reason for Aspinall to be proud of his performance.

"I've had a fantastic weekend and I think it's one of the best tournaments I've played in a long time," said Aspinall afterwards. "I played really well in the final and Luke saved his best performance for the last game; that's why he's world number one and the best player in the world. I pushed him all the way but it was a great tournament for me. The crowd were unbelievable again."

Reaching the final was also a major boost for Aspinall ahead of the upcoming World Matchplay. The Stockport star will soon have to defend the £200,000 in prize money he earned by winning the Blackpool major in 2023 – a crucial moment in his season.