In recent years, the PDC’s prize fund for tournaments has risen massively but despite that, Barry Hearn still believes there is more to come in terms of not only the prize fund but the image of the sport.

“People have been looking down on darts for too long.”

“You know statements like 'he looks a bit fat to be a sportsman'. But we don't challenge Usain Bolt, we are darters and we are proud of that. In addition, you have to find out how many children learn to count through darts, how many people with disabilities get pleasure from the game. With the right management, we can become a global sport,” said Hearn in a recent interview with RTL Nieuws.

Unlike some other sports, darts can be played almost anywhere which gives it a universal appeal.

“Darts is a unique sport. You can play it anywhere in the world. It is a very simple game to understand and it does not cost a lot of money. You don't need a membership or anything like that, you just need a board and some darts. It's all about yourself. How much do you want to sacrifice to get better?”

The PDC chairman therefore has big plans for the future. “At the moment, our total prize pool per year is 15 to 16 million euros. I would be disappointed if it hasn't doubled in five years. We are only limited by our own imagination.“