Luke Humphries has revealed that his fiancée never stopped believing in him after he completed a remarkable turnaround to secure his place at Premier League Finals Night.
The 31-year-old looked to be heading for an early exit from this year's competition just a few weeks ago after slipping five points adrift of the top four.
But the reigning champion produced one of his best displays of the season in Birmingham on Thursday night, defeating Stephen Bunting, Luke Littler and Gerwyn Price to clinch his first nightly victory of the campaign.
That memorable treble of wins ensured Humphries will return to London's O2 Arena later this month, where he will attempt to defend the title he won last year.
And after finally sealing his spot in the play-offs, the former world champion admitted his girlfriend played a key role in helping him rediscover his confidence.
"Yes, there was a point where I thought I wouldn't make Finals Night," Humphries said.
"When you are five points outside the top four you think you need a miracle.
"But in the back of my mind and my girlfriend's mind, we knew I had it in me.
"I needed someone to tell me I could do it, and I've believed in myself these last few weeks."
Humphries has been engaged to Kayley Jones since May 2024.
The world No 2 has enjoyed a meteoric rise in recent years, winning major titles and establishing himself as one of the sport's elite players.
But his Premier League defence had appeared in serious jeopardy before his late surge.
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That made Thursday's success especially satisfying.
"I'm incredibly proud of myself, probably the most proud I've ever been in my life," he said.
"For the last few weeks there has been a lot of pressure on my shoulders.
"To make three finals and win one means a lot.
"I get written off a lot as a player but this means I have that grit and determination."
Humphries saved his best performance for the semi-final against Littler.
After falling 3-0 behind to the teenage world No 1, he reeled off six consecutive legs to complete a stunning 6-3 comeback, averaging close to 111.
He then maintained that momentum in the final, averaging 100.16 and landing a brilliant 117 checkout to beat Price 6-4.
The victory completed a dramatic recovery and confirmed his place among the four players who will battle for the Premier League crown at the O2.
"I'm really proud because it would have hurt me had I not defended the title at The O2," he added.
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