Luke Littler's classy gesture to Luke Humphries leads to crazy Instagram growth overnight

Luke Humphries' following on social media has exploded thanks to his World Darts Championship final opponent Luke Littler.

Littler is one of the biggest names in British sport at the moment, after his unprecedented run to the final at Ally Pally.

The 16-year-old fell just short, losing 7-4 to current world number 1, Humphries.

Although he couldn't quite get over the line, Littler still walked away with a life-changing £200,000 after beating Christian Kist, Andrew Gilding, Matt Campbell, Raymond van Barneveld, Brendan Dolan and Rob Cross on route to the final.

The media attention on Littler and darts as a whole has exploded since the new year, with players being catapulted into worldwide stardom.

Unsurprisingly, Littler has received the majority of this and has gained a staggering one million followers on Instagram since making his World Championship debut.

The teenager has used his new platform to benefit the man who prevented his dream of being the youngest-ever world champion with a selfless gesture.

Littler recently revealed a direct message Humphries sent to congratulate him on hitting the million landmark.

Humphries jokingly wrote: "Bro you need to tell some of them to follow me, that's mad. Congrats man."

Littler and Humphries during the final

As we get to know this sporting prodigy more and more, it comes as less of a surprise that the youngster followed through with his rival's request.

'The Nuke' posted a screenshot of Humphries' message with the caption: "Come on everyone give the world champ some followers ;)."

Since Littler's story post, the world number one has gained a staggering 30,000 followers overnight, highlighting the new influence the teenager has despite his age.

Littler and Humphries will have to put their new friendship aside next month, as they have both been selected for the Premier League which kicks off in Cardiff on February 1st.