LUKE HUMPHRIES hit back at being dubbed the "worst world champion" after narrowly missing out on a fourth successive major title.
The world No1 blew two match darts and lost the UK Open final to Dimitri Van den Bergh in Minehead on Sunday night.
Humphries, 28, had fought back from 7-2 down to level that match up at 10-10 to force a deciding leg.
But he missed his chance and the Belgian, who was booed by fans for delaying tactics in the latter stages, wrapped up the £110,000 title.
Humphries, who told the fans to stop jeering, said: "I give it everything and I didn’t play well there.
Fans in hysterics as Price wears EAR DEFENDERS to block boos but still loses
"A lot of people were saying I was the worst world champion three weeks ago. All of a sudden another major final. I’m proud of myself.
“I’ve had a long five days on the road, I’m actually shattered. I was flagging in the semi. I was lucky to get two darts in the end there. The crowd were amazing.
"I’ll obviously be gutted because I missed two darts. Dimitri played a good game. I did my best."
Van den Bergh stood drinking water by his table for an extended time at one stage, but held his cool to take the crown - his second major title.
He broke down in tears and said: "Luke showed again why he is world champion.
BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS
"When I was 10-8 in front I just lost it. I lost my guts. My grandad passed away two years ago, this is my first gold."
Humphries will return to action on Thursday when he faces Gerwyn Price in Night 6 of the Premier League in Brighton.
He sits sixth in the eight-player standings after picking up just seven points from the opening five weeks.
The Premier League's top four after 16 weeks of action advance through to the play-offs at The O2 in London on May 23.
Price may boycott Ally Pally after exit as he blocks boos with ear defenders