James Wade prefers Donald Duck over the World Series: “It was necessary to spend quality time with the family.”

James Wade has never been one to follow the crowd — and this summer, while the PDC’s top names pack their bags for the World Series Down Under, The Machine has opted instead for a much needed recharge and some quality family time.

Instead of boarding a long-haul flight to Australia and New Zealand, Wade headed to Disneyland Paris with his family — and judging by the smile in the holiday snaps, he has no regrets. “Morning all, we have had the best family holiday away at Disneyland Paris," writes the recent World Matchplay runner-up in a post on Facebook. "Thanks for such a great time!! We all loved it and it was very well needed to spend some quality time with the family. Also got to wear my new bag,” he posted, alongside pictures from the trip.

Said bag? A bold, brilliant Donald Duck-themed number that Wade proudly sported — a far cry from his usual match-day getup, but proof that when it comes to his family and making his children happy, Wade will go above and beyond.

But this wasn’t just a holiday snap moment — it marked a real shift in priorities for the 42-year-old, who confirmed in conversation with Dartsnews.com during the recent World Matchplay, that it was the first time he’s ever turned down an invite from the PDC.

"The first time I’ve ever turned down an invitation from the PDC was just a couple of weeks ago, for the trip to Australia. I’d already booked a family holiday," he said during his run to the final in Blackpool. “As much as I want to go to Australia, I’m going to Disneyland Paris instead. I won’t put darts before my family.”

Then came a classic Wade moment of quiet reflection: “But for the last 20 years, I have put the PDC before James, before my family, and before relatives. I’ve done enough for them, I think.”

Known for his blunt honesty, Wade has long been one of the sport’s most consistent performers — a major winner with a unique rhythm and an unshakeable sense of who he is. And while fans from Down Under might miss him on the World Series stage this year, there’s a strong sense that Wade’s still very much in control of his next chapter — whether that’s on the oche, or at a character breakfast with Donald Duck to make his kids happy.