Mental health in darts

A chartered psychologist and former England Darts Captain has said the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) must do more to protect players' mental health. Dr Linda Duffy (University of Middlesex) spoke out after 2024 world number one Luke Humphries faced backlash after speaking about the psychological pressure he was under, thanks to his competition schedule.

Duffy said it was disheartening to see the abuse Humphries had faced since he opened up about his mental wellbeing. 'Darts is now more popular than ever before, and there has never been greater scrutiny placed upon the top players of the sport.

'Travelling all around the world, with increased time away from family, playing in front of millions of people, most days of the week, can place a great psychological toll on one person to deal with.'

Duffy pointed out that, compared with team sports, darts places special pressure on players. 'On a darts stage, you are on your own, there is nowhere to hide.'

Duffy also spoke about Luke Littler – the 2025 world champion. She said, while he had been incredible for the sport, and was dealing brilliantly with the pressure he was under, it was natural his performances would not always reach the same heights. 'When that happens, and under the full glare of the media and social media spotlight, what support will be in place?'

The Professional Darts Players Association (PDPA) has collaborated with Sporting Chance to provide mental health support to its members, and Duffy said this was a step in the right direction. 'With record prize money and more watching darts than ever before, the PDC and the PDPA must do all they can to look after their players who are performing at the highest level week in week out. If they don't, there is a risk that even more players suffer burnout as the sport embarks on its ambitious new era.'

Dr Duffy was speaking as part of the British Psychological Society's Psychology Matters campaign.