The PDC Order of Merit has seen a dramatic shift following Luke Humphries’ commanding victory at the 2025 Czech Darts Open in Prague, where he clinched the title with an 8-5 triumph over Josh Rock in a thrilling final. The world number one, known for his cool-headed precision, has extended his lead at the top of the rankings, pulling further ahead of teenage sensation Luke Littler. With the European Tour title adding £30,000 to his prize money and bolstering his ranking points, Humphries continues to solidify his dominance in professional darts as the 2025 season progresses. The Prague victory, part of the 13-event European Tour, underscores his consistency and sets the stage for an intense rivalry with Littler as the year unfolds.
Humphries, the reigning world champion, showcased his prowess in Prague, racing to a 7-1 semi-final win over James Wade before outlasting Rock in a high-octane final. “It’s a brilliant contest,” Humphries remarked, reflecting on the quality of his clash with Rock. His third consecutive Czech Darts Open title marks a historic hat-trick, reinforcing his status as a formidable force. The win netted him crucial ranking points, further widening the gap over Littler, who sits at No. 2 in the Order of Merit. Humphries’ 2025 season has been a masterclass in resilience, with standout performances across the European Tour, including a quarter-final appearance at the Flanders Darts Trophy, where Littler claimed the crown.
Luke Littler, the 18-year-old prodigy dubbed “The Nuke,” remains a fierce contender despite Humphries’ recent surge. Fresh off his own European Tour title in Antwerp at the 2025 Blaklader Flanders Darts Trophy, where he edged out Rock in a last-leg decider, Littler continues to captivate fans. “It’s my second title in Belgium this year,” Littler celebrated after his 7-1 rout of Daryl Gurney in the Antwerp semi-finals. His performances, including a perfect 6/6 doubling display against Dylan Slevin at the same event, highlight his extraordinary talent. With a career-best season and a 6-2 victory over Cameron Menzies in Prague, Littler’s pursuit of the top spot remains relentless, though Humphries’ consistency keeps him just out of reach for now.
The PDC Order of Merit, updated biweekly, ranks players based on prize money earned over a two-year period, with Humphries’ Prague triumph adding to his substantial lead. The Czech Darts Open, held from September 5–7, offered £175,000 in total prize money, with £30,000 for the champion and 115 ranking points. The Order of Merit is critical, determining seedings for major televised events like the World Darts Championship and Premier League. Humphries’ current tally, bolstered by his 2024 World Championship title and multiple European Tour successes, places him comfortably ahead, while Littler’s rapid rise—fueled by his World Championship final appearance and two European Tour titles in 2025—keeps the pressure on.
The Prague event, part of the European Tour’s grueling schedule, saw 48 players compete, with Humphries navigating a tough field that included top seeds like Michael van Gerwen and Michael Smith. Littler, despite not reaching the final, impressed with a 6-2 win over Menzies, averaging nearly 99. “I’m just shy of 99 in the process,” he noted, signaling his intent to challenge Humphries further. The tournament’s format, featuring best-of-11 legs in early rounds and best-of-15 in the final, tested players’ endurance and precision, with Humphries’ experience proving decisive.
As the 2025 season continues, the Humphries-Littler rivalry is set to dominate headlines. With upcoming events like the World Grand Prix and Players Championship, both players have opportunities to add to their rankings. Humphries’ ability to perform under pressure, combined with Littler’s fearless flair, promises more electrifying battles. The darts world is buzzing with anticipation, as fans await the next chapter in this gripping contest between the established king and the young pretender.
# PDC Order of Merit Update: Humphries Widens Lead Over Littler with Czech Darts Open Triumph
## Overview
The PDC Order of Merit has been updated following the 2025 Czech Darts Open (September 5–7), where Luke Humphries claimed the title, defeating Josh Rock 8-5 in the final. The victory strengthens Humphries’ position as world No. 1, extending his lead over No. 2 Luke Littler.
## Key Performances
– **Luke Humphries (No. 1)**:
– Won third consecutive Czech Darts Open title, defeating James Wade 7-1 in the semi-finals and Josh Rock 8-5 in the final.
– Earned £30,000 and 115 ranking points, boosting his Order of Merit lead.
– “It’s a brilliant contest,” Humphries said of his final against Rock.
– **Luke Littler (No. 2)**:
– Reached early rounds in Prague with a 6-2 win over Cameron Menzies, averaging nearly 99.
– Fresh off winning the 2025 Blaklader Flanders Darts Trophy, defeating Josh Rock in a last-leg decider.
– “It’s my second title in Belgium this year,” Littler noted after his Antwerp victory.
## Tournament Details
– **Event**: 2025 Czech Darts Open (European Tour Event 11)
– **Dates**: September 5–7, 2025
– **Venue**: Prague, Czech Republic
– **Prize Money**: £175,000 total (£30,000 for champion)
– **Format**: Best-of-11 legs (early rounds), best-of-15 legs (final)
– **Ranking Points**: 115 for winner, distributed among top finishers
## Order of Merit Insights
– The PDC Order of Merit ranks players based on prize money earned over two years.
– Humphries’ consistent performances, including his 2024 World Championship and multiple 2025 European Tour titles, solidify his No. 1 spot.
– Littler’s rapid ascent, driven by two European Tour titles and a World Championship final, keeps him close but trailing.
## What’s Next
– Humphries and Littler are set to compete in upcoming events like the World Grand Prix and Players Championship.
– The Order of Merit will continue to shape seedings for major events, with the World Darts Championship looming as a key battleground.
## Why It Matters
The Humphries-Littler rivalry is defining the 2025 season, with Humphries’ experience clashing against Littler’s youthful brilliance. The Czech Darts Open highlights their contrasting styles, setting the stage for more high-stakes showdowns.
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