It is estimated that over 15 million people regularly play darts in the US, yet there has been no world-class play to emerge from the country. Despite darts rising in popularity every year, why has no American cemented themselves as a challenger for the biggest titles?
The world of professional darts is a mix of music, lights, drunken crowds and some amazing skill by the players who take to the oche to entertain thousands watching in the venue and on TV at home. This is the PDC (Professional Darts Corporation) where the best players in the world play in front of tens of thousands of fans and are recognized all over the globe, from the UK to Japan.
The players are showmen, with unique personalities and exciting games has turned what was once a pub game into compelling viewing in the UK and Europe. At the end of each year, the World Championships take place, and darts is now synonymous with Christmas and new year with the event running over a two-week period. Fans flock to the Alexandra Palace in all sorts of fancy dress enjoying the festive period while taking in some live darts.
No Such Darting Success in the US
However, over the pond, darts remains a small, recreational activity you might consider playing while having a few drinks. Despite millions partaking in a game of arrows, there are no American players in the top 100 of the PDC rankings.
There are some quirky characters in US darts and the darts leagues across the country are showing signs of growth year-on-year. There is certainly a lot of untapped potential in US darts but the the fire has not been lit yet.
There are three major organizations in US darts, the ADA (American Darters association), ADO (American Darts Organization) and the NDA (National Dart Association). The ADA operates in numerous states and is the only body out of the three that encompasses the steel tip and electronic tip styles of darts. There is a cordial relationship between each organization with the understanding working towards one goal would mean growing the game at home.
However, that one goal has not been agreed upon. If there is no strategic planning between these organizations and an agreed plan moving forward, there is no chance US darts will rise above its current status as a fun hobby.
There are US players that are sent to play in the World cup every year alongside the top players, which is a great experience. We also have the US Darts Masters, which was held in Madison Square Garden this year and is a great opportunity to get more eyes on darts in the country.
US darts likely won’t ever reach the level of interest it draws in Europe. However, there is no reason more players can’t emerge from the country if a more refined strategy is put in place and players see the potential financial rewards from turning professional.
