“No one can ever do what he did!”

It wasn’t until the semi-final match that Humphries showed his best form for the first time. After an absolute masterclass, Joyce was beaten 5-0 in sets. ‘Cool Hand Luke’ averaged 100.30 in the process, which was only the second 100-plus average in a World Grand Prix semi-final.

“I thought it was special – 5-0 is quite flattering and it takes two to tango,” Humphries said afterwards, full of praise for Joyce despite the convincing nature of his straight sets success. “It was a performance that was much needed – Ryan was brilliant right there. I had to play so well, but I’m capable of those big performances and I believe in myself in those big moments.”

“I think it’s a dream final, it really is,” continues the world number one, looking ahead to tonight’s battle with De Decker. “We’ve had so many battles and it’s going to be a good game. Mike is playing well and I know I’ll have to be at my best again.”

Luke Humphries is looking for his second consecutive victory in the World Grand Prix final

“I don’t need to compare myself to Phil Taylor and Michael van Gerwen,” he insists. “Phil would make that game in game away, I’ve got one in five games, so you can’t compare me to Phil, ever. And he’ll always have achieved more than any single player that’s ever seen the world. No. one can never do the what has he done!”