James Wade has secured a place in the UK Open semi-finals after a stunning victory over World No.1 Luke Humphries, who fumed after his shock defeat by rushing off stage and barging past his opponent.
The three-time champion produced a remarkable performance to eliminate Humphries, who had appeared to be the dominant player of the tournament.
Wade’s clinical finishing proved decisive in the quarter-final clash, particularly in the closing stages of the match.
He now joins Luke Littler, Josh Rock and Jonny Clayton in the semi-finals of the prestigious tournament.
Luke Humphries was not happy after losing to James Wade in thrilling circumstances
ITV
Wade’s performance reached extraordinary heights when he fired in six 180s across just three legs as the match intensified.
A sumptuous 161 checkout on the bull to level at 3-3 proved a turning point for ‘The Machine’.
His scoring power became overwhelming in the latter stages, with back-to-back maximums leaving Humphries under constant pressure.
Wade’s clinical finishing on double 14 delivered an 11-darter to make it 7-7 at a crucial moment.
The veteran showed remarkable composure throughout, particularly when hitting double 10 to edge ahead late in the contest.
The match was a break-fest with neither player able to maintain control for long periods.
Humphries appeared to be heading towards victory at 7-5, but Wade refused to surrender.
The lead changed hands multiple times with Humphries breaking to lead 8-7, needing just two legs for victory.
Wade responded immediately, breaking back to level at 8-8.
James Wade celebrated wildly with the crowd after his incredible win
ITV
In the deciding leg, Wade hit two maximums to leave 45, which he pinned first time after Humphries had left himself 145.
Humphries’ frustration was evident at the conclusion of the match.
The World No.1 was visibly livid as he shook hands with Wade, barging past his opponent before quickly exiting after acknowledging the officials.
In contrast, Wade celebrated enthusiastically with the crowd.
LATEST SPORT NEWS:
WADE WINS AN EPIC! 🔥
Incredible from James Wade!
The Machine produces an 11-dart hold in the decider to deny world number one Luke Humphries in a thrilling quarter-final!
SIX 180s in the last three legs from Wade!
📺 https://t.co/NoQ0dOaEl5#UKOpenDarts pic.twitter.com/OWKUUHToas
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) March 2, 2025
His victory was made even sweeter by avoiding teenage sensation Luke Littler in the semi-finals.
Wade’s progression to the semi-finals sets up an intriguing final four at the UK Open.
The draw has been kind to Wade, who avoids facing teenage sensation Luke Littler at this stage.
For Wade, this victory represents a significant achievement against the world’s top-ranked player.