"A lot of the people saying these hurtful things can't even spell darts" – Ricky Evans claps back at haters after Ally Pally exit criticism

Ricky Evans has responded on social media to the fierce criticism and personal attacks that followed his elimination at the PDC World Darts Championship. The Englishman, who left Alexandra Palace visibly dejected, says he deliberately took a few days away to let everything sink in. In an extensive statement, Evans says he was hurt by the tone of the reactions, but at the same time he is trying to look ahead again.

Evans writes that he went offline for a while because of messages accusing him of making a fool of himself and personally tearing him down. "Had a few days off social media due to a few horrible messages/comments about me 'embarrassing myself and slagging me off,” said the darter. "A lot of the people saying these hurtful things can't even spell darts let alone do what I do year after year amongst the world's best"

Evans also points out that his performances this season cannot be separated from physical issues. He reveals he has been dealing with injuries for quite some time. "That's with the added bonus of arthiritis and tendonitis which have hampered me all year." Nevertheless, he kept competing on the biggest stage, something he believes is often underestimated.

The 35-year-old admits his Worlds ended differently than hoped and also looks critically at himself. “Yes the tournament ended not the way I would've liked and yes maybe I could've controlled my emotions a lot better at the end but that's darts and I'm only human." With those words, Evans appears to be referring to his visible frustration during his last match, which was widely amplified online.

Still, Evans does not want to dwell solely on disappointment. He stresses there were positive moments during his run in London. "Let's look at the positives, just look at how much fun and excitement surrounded me in the first two matches" According to Evans, those moments confirm that his expressive playing style and rapid tempo still resonate with the crowd. Evans makes clear he does not want to betray himself. "I will continue to be the proud, walk-on loving, fast throwing lunatic because that's me"

After an intense spell, Evans is now deliberately opting for rest. He says he will head to Poland for a few days, away from darts and obligations. "I'm off to Poland now for a few days of fun and non darts related adventures with the beautiful better half" he writes, with a wink toward the criticism. “She hasn’t left me yet, haters.”

Finally, Evans closes his message on a positive note toward the new year. "A very happy 2026 to you all”. With that, he seems keen to close the chapter around his Worlds exit and recharge out of the spotlight for what lies ahead.