In a heartfelt display of kindness, world number one Luke Humphries has stepped up to support 14-year-old Alex McGarrie, a young darts fan from Stockport who has tragically endured bullying at school for two years. At the forefront of the situation, Humphries is working tirelessly to ensure Alex has a memorable experience by arranging VIP tickets and a meet-and-greet with top players at the upcoming Premier League darts event in Manchester.
Attending Hazel Grove High School, Alex has faced bullying primarily due to his autism, as confirmed by his supportive parents. The nightmare he's endured is something no child should have to face, and thankfully, Humphries decided to take action after hearing about Alex's situation. On March 17, 2025, he took to social media to express his intentions, posting, “I will speak to the PDC this week when in Cardiff and see if we can get him some tickets and a chance to meet all the players in Manchester if that suits? No one likes a bully, hope he’s okay and send him my best wishes.”
Planning to address the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) during his visit to Cardiff, where he is competing against fellow darts superstar Michael van Gerwen, Humphries aims not just to support Alex, but also to send a powerful message against bullying. Known as “Cool Hand Luke,” Humphries is not just an exceptional player in current standings—second in the Premier League, he trails just one point behind leader Luke Littler—but also a formidable force in championing kindness.
The positive response to Humphries’ gesture has been widespread, with many expressing their admiration for his character. One fan noted on social media, “Class act, total respect. That’s exactly how a world No. 1 should be: an inspiration.” Another fan remarked, “You are a fantastic player and a class act, keep it up.”
This is not the first time Humphries has showcased his commitment to making a difference through darts. Earlier this year, he was instrumental in a fundraising initiative that generated over £2 million for prostate cancer organizations during the last two Paddy Power PDC World Championship tournaments. His efforts went beyond the sport, proving how athletes can lead the charge for positive change.
As the Premier League darts event approaches, scheduled for April 10 at the AO Arena in Manchester, Humphries’ initiative reflects a growing trend among athletes to leverage their platforms for social good. With plans to host a meet-and-greet session featuring prominent players, including Luke Littler and others ranked in the top 10, the gesture aims to uplift Alex and show solidarity within the darting community.
As excitement builds for the upcoming event, both the fans and the players are eager to rally around Alex in a show of support. It highlights how the darts community can come together to combat bullying and make a significant impact in a young person's life.
Humphries’ reputation as a class act has only been enhanced by his heartfelt gesture. After all, being a champion in sports is not just about victories on the board; it's also about uplifting others, especially those facing difficult challenges. Alex’s ordeal has touched many hearts, and in light of this incident, various players and fans express their hopes for Alex's well-being.
With attention now focused on the upcoming Cardiff Premier League night, Humphries is set to take on van Gerwen this Thursday. The match promises to be an exciting event, but many will be watching closely for updates on Alex’s situation and the outcome of Humphries’ discussions with the PDC regarding the planned meet-and-greet.
In previous weeks, Humphries had a strong foothold in the Premier League, standing shoulder to shoulder with outstanding competitors like Littler and Gerwyn Price, each of whom has already secured two Premier League night wins this season. It's a competitive landscape, but Humphries continues to shine, boasting a significant title this year with his triumph at the Winmau World Masters.
As Humphries prepares for his next match, the darts community eagerly anticipates the impact of his kind-hearted actions for Alex. It is a testament to how a small gesture can resonate deeply within a sporting environment but also beyond, fostering friendships and showing the importance of compassion. In a world where bullying remains a prevalent issue, the camaraderie showcased by Humphries and the darting community provides hope and positive messaging for other individuals who may be suffering.
Ultimately, as fans look forward to premier league events, they also recognize the profound influence an athlete can wield. Whether it’s through their performance or their willingness to support someone in need, athletes like Humphries redefine what it means to be a champion beyond the competition. Learning through Alex's story resonates as a reminder that kindness can change lives.
