James Wade has expressed his views on Luke Humphries after Gary Anderson defended the current world number one and reigning world champion. Wayne Mardle also commented on Gary Anderson’s comments at the World Grand Prix. Wade backed Anderson’s earlier statements while passionately defending Humphreys, arguing that only Phil Taylor and perhaps Michael van Gerwen could be considered the greatest world champions. World No. 1 Humphries has had an impressive year, starting with victory at the 2023 World Grand Prix, followed by a Grand Slam of Darts, a Players Championship final and a win at the World Championship at Alexandra Palace later that year. Wade’s comments came shortly after two-time world champion Anderson suggested Humphries is “often overlooked” and deserves “a bit more respect.”

“I have to admit that Gary Anderson and I don’t always see eye to eye,” Wade said in a press conference after his 3-0 win over Gerwyn Price on Thursday. “However, I firmly believe that Luke Humphries ranks as the second or third best world champion we have ever seen.”

After witnessing some classic roars from Gerwyn Price during their World Grand Prix encounter, James Wade celebrated enthusiastically upon winning the first set in their last-16 match. “Numerous world champions have emerged, yet Luke Humphries has achieved nearly everything since the World Championship, as well as prior to it.”