The Warrington-born 16-year-old debutant has set Alexandra Palace alight over the last fortnight and was one win away from producing one of the greatest sporting stories of all time by becoming the youngest world champion.
But he fell at the final hurdle as Humphries showed why he is the new world number one with a scintillating 7-4 victory, which saw him lift the Sid Waddell trophy for the first time.
It is a landmark success for the 28-year-old, who has now won four of the last five major tournaments after an incredible few months.
Although this was his biggest win of all, it was not exactly the most popular as the Ally Pally crowd were desperate for their new star's amazing journey to finish in glory.
Humphries may have been the champion, but Warrington-born Littler received a hero's reception at the end of the match and he is the story of the tournament.
Life will never be the same for Littler, who now has a global profile, as his exploits have transcended the world of darts.
Denne historien er fra January 04, 2024-utgaven av Manchester Evening News.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra January 04, 2024-utgaven av Manchester Evening News.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
DE LIGT - PRESSURE AT UNITED LIKE NO OTHER CLUB
UNITED defender Matthijs de Ligt has admitted that the pressure at Old Trafford is the highest he has felt at any stage during his career to date.
Amad's rapid rise started after false dawn north of the border at Rangers
IT was a chastening experience for a young and inexperienced player - three down in one of the biggest games in world football and subbed at half-time.
Harry: We have to take responsibility
BRUNO Fernandes flanked Ruben Amorim at his first Europa League press conference so United turned to their de facto second-in-command.
TAKEOVER BID FOR SALFORD IS LODGED
SUPER League clubs have been informed by the RFL that a takeover bid has been lodged for Salford Red Devils.
RFU's Sweeney won't walk away
Bill Sweeney has vowed to fight on in his role as Rugby Football Union chief executive despite facing calls for his dismissal over a pay and bonuses scandal.
Should you be encouraging kids to clear their plate?
PRESSURING THEM TO EAT WELL COULD BACKFIRE, CAMILLA FOSTER FINDS OUT
COLD CUTS
ONE of the gardening projects that can induce a feeling of fear and trepidation is pruning, especially winter pruning. So this week I'll break down the subject into its simplest form, looking at some of the plants you might grow in your garden which could benefit from a considered cutting back over the next couple of months.
Blow for Chancellor as borrowing surges
CHANCELLOR Rachel Reeves is facing further pressure over Britain's public finances after official figures showed a bigger-than-expected surge in government borrowing last month to nearly £18 billion.
Guardiola will be concerned storm clouds are gathering once again...
FOG covered the Eiffel Tower on Tuesday and City are in danger of disappearing from the Champions League.
REDS OFFERED HOPE IN PAT CHASE FROM LECCE
UNITED have been handed a promising sign from Lecce that their attempts to bring Patrick Dorgu to Old Trafford could be nearing a conclusion.
