Phil Taylor Claims Darts Star Could Have Been a Multi-Millionaire in the PDC
Legendary darts icon Phil Taylor has stirred the pot in the world of darts with his bold claim that a prominent star of the game could have become a “multi-millionaire” if they had chosen to compete in the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC). Taylor, often regarded as the greatest darts player of all time, shared his thoughts in a recent interview, reigniting the debate about the financial and professional disparities between the PDC and its counterpart, the British Darts Organisation (BDO).
The Star in Question
While Taylor refrained from naming the individual directly, speculation among fans and pundits has centered on several legendary figures from the BDO era, such as Martin Adams, Glen Durrant, or even former champions like Trina Gulliver. These players dominated the BDO circuit during their peak years but never made the full transition to the PDC, where the prize money and global exposure have skyrocketed over the past two decades.
Taylor’s Perspective
Taylor, who dominated the PDC circuit with 16 World Championship titles, emphasized the stark financial contrast between the two organizations.
“If this player had come over to the PDC when they were at their best, there’s no doubt they’d be a multi-millionaire by now,” Taylor said. “The level of competition, the exposure, and the sponsorship opportunities in the PDC are worlds apart. It’s not just about the prize money; it’s about the global stage.”
The PDC, under the leadership of Barry Hearn, has transformed darts into a global phenomenon, with lucrative sponsorship deals, live television coverage, and record-breaking prize pools. In comparison, the BDO struggled financially, eventually ceasing operations in 2020.
Missed Opportunities
Many players who stayed with the BDO during its twilight years have openly expressed regret about missing out on the PDC’s boom. The annual PDC World Darts Championship now boasts a prize fund exceeding £2.5 million, with £500,000 awarded to the winner. By contrast, the BDO World Championship’s prize fund often paled in comparison, even in its heyday.
Taylor’s comments highlight the life-changing impact a PDC career could have had on some of the BDO’s most talented players. “They had the talent, no doubt about it,” Taylor added. “But darts isn’t just about skill; it’s about timing, opportunity, and the right platform. The PDC offered that, and it’s a shame some incredible players never made the leap.”
Fan Reactions
Fans have taken to social media to debate Taylor’s claim, with many expressing agreement.
“Phil is spot on. Imagine what players like Wolfie (Martin Adams) or Duzza (Glen Durrant) could have achieved if they had joined the PDC in their prime,” one fan tweeted. Another wrote, “It’s sad to think about the lost potential. The PDC really is where the money and recognition are.”
Others, however, argued that the decision to stay in the BDO was often about more than just money. Many players had strong ties to the BDO and valued its community-driven ethos.
A Changing Landscape
The landscape of professional darts has evolved dramatically since Taylor’s prime. Today, the PDC is the undisputed pinnacle of the sport, attracting top talent from around the world. Players like Michael van Gerwen, Gerwyn Price, and Fallon Sherrock have become global superstars, earning millions both on and off the oche.
Taylor’s comments serve as a stark reminder of how different the darts world might have been if more players had made the switch to the PDC during its formative years. As the debate continues, one thing remains clear: the PDC’s rise has forever changed the game, creating opportunities that were unimaginable just a few decades ago.
For fans of the sport, the question lingers: what might have been if these stars had embraced the PDC’s platform during their peak? While the answer may remain speculative, Taylor’s insights add another layer to the rich tapestry of darts history.
