In the high-octane world of professional darts, where rivalries simmer and friendships are forged in the heat of competition, Nathan Aspinall has dropped a bombshell that’s got the darts community buzzing. The Stockport-born star, known as “The Asp,” recently revealed that his mates have a surprising dislike for one of the sport’s biggest names: reigning world champion Luke Humphries. The candid admission, laced with Aspinall’s characteristic honesty, peels back the curtain on the complex dynamics of the darts tour, where admiration and envy often collide.
Aspinall, a two-time PDC major champion with the 2019 UK Open and 2023 World Matchplay titles to his name, is no stranger to the spotlight. At 33, he’s carved out a reputation as a fierce competitor and a fan favorite, blending grit with charisma. His journey from a trainee accountant to a world-ranked player has been marked by resilience, including a public battle with dartitis—a psychological condition that disrupts a player’s ability to release darts smoothly. Yet, it’s his latest comments about Humphries that have sparked intrigue, offering a glimpse into the off-stage tensions among darts’ elite.
“It’s disgusting,” Aspinall said, addressing the negativity directed at Humphries. “A lot of my mates can’t stand him, and I don’t understand why.” His words carry weight, especially given his self-described role as a straight-talker in the sport. Humphries, nicknamed “Cool Hand,” has been a dominant force since claiming the 2024 PDC World Championship title, defeating prodigy Luke Littler in a thrilling final. At 30, he’s the world No. 1, with a string of titles including the World Grand Prix and Players Championship Finals. His methodical style and unflappable demeanor have earned him respect, but Aspinall suggests not everyone is a fan.
The revelation came during a candid moment ahead of the 2025 Premier League Darts season, where both players are set to compete. Aspinall, who finished fifth in the 2024 Premier League, has been vocal about his desire to reclaim a top spot after a year marred by injury and inconsistency. Humphries, meanwhile, is riding high, his trophy cabinet bulging and his confidence unshaken. Yet, according to Aspinall, some in his circle view Humphries with disdain—a sentiment he finds baffling. “He’s a great guy,” Aspinall insisted, praising Humphries’ character. “He’s done so much for darts, and he’s only getting better.”
The darts world thrives on its colorful personalities, and Aspinall’s comments highlight the undercurrents of rivalry that fuel the sport’s drama. Humphries, for all his success, has faced scrutiny for his reserved demeanor, which contrasts with the brash showmanship of players like Gerwyn Price or the youthful swagger of Littler. Some speculate that his relentless winning streak—eight titles in 2024 alone—breeds resentment among peers or their supporters, a theory Aspinall seems to reject. “Jealousy’s a funny thing,” he mused, without naming names. “But it’s not fair to knock someone who’s worked so hard.”
Aspinall’s defense of Humphries adds a layer of complexity to their relationship. The two have faced off multiple times, with Humphries often holding the edge in recent encounters. Their 2024 World Championship quarterfinal clash saw Humphries triumph 5-3, a match Aspinall later called “a proper battle.” Despite the losses, Aspinall harbors no ill will, positioning himself as an ally rather than a critic. “We’re mates, we chat, we push each other,” he said, emphasizing the camaraderie that underpins their rivalry. This makes his mates’ dislike all the more puzzling, a disconnect he’s keen to challenge.
The backdrop to this drama is the evolving landscape of darts, where new stars like Littler have elevated the sport’s profile. Aspinall has previously spoken about Littler’s isolating rise, noting that many players envy the teenager’s fame. His comments about Humphries suggest a similar dynamic—success invites scrutiny, and not everyone celebrates a champion’s rise. Yet, Aspinall’s willingness to call out this negativity sets him apart. He’s not just throwing darts; he’s throwing shade at the haters, urging a rethink of how success is perceived in the sport.
As the Premier League looms, all eyes will be on Aspinall and Humphries. The former, with his “Mr. Brightside” walk-on and infectious energy, wants to rediscover the form that saw him reach world No. 4 in 2024. Humphries, meanwhile, is chasing history, aiming to cement his legacy as one of darts’ all-time greats. Their encounters promise fireworks, but Aspinall’s remarks add an extra layer of intrigue. Will his mates’ dislike fuel Humphries to prove a point? Or will Aspinall channel his frustration into a career-defining run?
For now, Aspinall remains focused on the bigger picture. “Darts is mental,” he said, reflecting on the sport’s highs and lows. “You’ve got to love it, respect it, and keep fighting.” His defense of Humphries shows a player who values fairness over gossip, even if it means ruffling feathers. In a sport where precision is everything, Aspinall’s aim here is clear: to hit the bullseye of truth, no matter who’s watching—or hating—from the sidelines.