Charlie Manby's prominent rise in darts has made him an exciting talent for the future on the oche, but away from the sport he is set to become a dad for the first time after he and his girlfriend, Tia, announced that they are expecting their first child in October 2026.
The 20-year-old has been followed by many with a rapid rise in store. He showed his worth at the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship, where he took down the likes of Cameron Menzies and Ricky Evans enroute to a fantastic last-16 appearance, where the eventual finalist Gian van Veen defeated him 4-1.
He would back this display up by
clinching his tour card at Q-School, overcoming a slow start to secure a two-year tour card and a pathway into professional darts. He has already made an impact, reaching a brace of quarterfinals on the Pro Tour in Leicester earlier this week while reaching the fourth round of the UK Open, losing 10-6 to Ryan Joyce.
His life away from the oche, however, will soon change drastically for the better. He is set to turn over a new chapter in his life with the imminent prospect of becoming a father.
The couple unveiled the news on
social media. The post had a baby outfit with 'baby Manby' written on it along with a badge confirming it will be due in October 2026. "We’ve been keeping a little secret," the captain said. "Our hearts are growing by two tiny feet. Baby Manby arriving October 2026."
Now secured with a tour card for the next two years, it is only up for Manby. He has rise to world number 93 with the target being to get inside the top 64 within the next two years to keep his tour privileges. He will soon have to juggle that along with being a dad as his progression in and away from the sport continues for 'Champagne.'