Former professional player and darts pundit Matthew Edgar believes the sport’s showpiece event, the PDC World Darts Championship, has outgrown its spiritual home at Alexandra Palace. Speaking to Online Darts, Edgar warned that darts is reaching a “crunch point” in terms of demand — and failing to meet it could be a costly mistake.
“Just visualise it,” Edgar said. “You’re outside selling tickets, you let everyone in, and then you shut the doors — sorry, sold out. But then you look out and realise you could fill the place ten times over. You’re turning away more people than you’re letting in. That’s not good business.”
He continued: “Do you think Barry Hearn will let that slide? He’s not seeing people, he’s seeing pounds. And the players? They’ll be asking Barry to sort it out — because if more fans get in, ticket prices go up, prize money goes up. Everyone benefits. I think we need to be looking at a 5,000-seater venue at least.”
“The WrestleMania of Darts”
For Edgar, the World Championship has grown beyond the players — the event itself is now the star attraction.
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“Darts is selling regardless of who’s playing. People say, ‘I’m going to the Worlds,’ not, ‘I’m going to see Player X.’ It’s become our WrestleMania. Fans buy their tickets and book flights before they even know the lineup. It’s the Christmas party, the big event — and that’s why I think Ally Pally’s time has passed.”
But Edgar isn’t calling for the famous venue to be retired completely — far from it. He believes Alexandra Palace could breathe new life into another historic tournament.
“I said on the Live Lounge: ditch soulless Milton Keynes and bring the new Winmau World Masters to Ally Pally. Sure, it’s not the same event as in the old days, but the name still holds weight. Let’s give it the stage it deserves.”
Where Should the World Championship Go?
While Edgar argues for a larger venue, he insists the event must remain in a major city.
“It’s got to stay somewhere with proper infrastructure — hotels, airports, transport. London fits that bill. You’ve got multiple international airports, public transport, and plenty of accommodation. Birmingham could work, but London’s ideal.”
He also sees potential in other styles of events, inspired by Blackpool’s unique atmosphere.
“Blackpool works because it’s a summer holiday destination. Why not lean into that more? Butlins Minehead sells out in the dead of winter — people stay in caravans with frozen pipes and no running water, and they love it. That tells you there’s something special there.”
World Series: Australia Lacks the Spark
Edgar also shared thoughts on the recent World Series of Darts, contrasting the buzz around New York’s Madison Square Garden with the lackluster vibe from Australia.
“I didn’t even bother making content on this one. In New York, you felt the hype. But for Australia? I was sat in a flat in Portsmouth watching it. That says it all.
“America is a developing market — the CDC are doing great work, and it feels like there’s a story building. In Australia, we’ve seen the best they’ve got, and they’re already on tour. Are players going to relocate from the other side of the world? Probably not. With Asia, there’s still mystery. With Australia, we already know what to expect — and when Damon Heta is the best hope and he doesn’t go all the way, that tells you the mystique is gone.”
Can Adrian Lewis Return to the Top?
The discussion ended on the topic of Adrian Lewis, following his appearances at the International Pairs and influencer events. While fans are eager to see “Jackpot” back on the main stage, Edgar isn’t so sure it’s possible.
“That’s a tough question. When it’s gone, it’s gone — but it never leaves you completely. When you’re in the game, darts comes first. Birthdays, weddings, funerals — darts trumps all of it. You have to be selfish. And when you lose that edge, the world looks different.
“Being a pro is one of the loneliest jobs. You miss everything. Eventually the invites stop coming. Adrian’s been through that. Now he’s reconnecting with people, enjoying life outside of airports and venues. Can he go back to that lifestyle? I’m not sure he can — or even if he wants to.”
Conclusion
Darts, according to Edgar, is at a turning point — one that could shape its future for years to come. From the need for a bigger World Championship venue to the shifting role of international events, and the uncertain road ahead for legends like Adrian Lewis, it’s clear that the game is evolving. Whether the powers that be embrace that change or resist it may decide just how far the sport can go.
