''The man doesn't give a sh*t about players outside the top 10'' - Former darts star fires shots at PDPA chairman Peter Manley

The criticism of the playing conditions at the Players Championship events in Rosmalen continues to grow. After Justin Hood and Daryl Gurney previously voiced their frustrations over the venue and the cold temperatures inside the Autotron, Mickey Mansell and former professional Justin Pipe have now also spoken out.

Mickey Mansell took to social media to express his disappointment with the situation, pointing to ongoing issues at multiple tournaments. "As professional players, we shouldn’t have to worry about playing conditions. Unfortunately, last weekend in Wigan and now this week in Rosmalen, it just hasn’t been good enough."

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Mansell also criticized the way responsibility is handled between the PDC (Professional Darts Corporation) and the PDPA (Professional Darts Players Association), claiming that both organizations are passing the blame. "Same sh*t—PDPA says it’s PDC’s responsibility, PDC says it’s the venue’s responsibility!!".

Former darts professional Justin Pipe took his criticism even further, specifically targeting PDPA chairman Peter Manley. The PDPA is supposed to protect players’ interests, but according to Pipe, that is not happening.

"Peter Manley is only going through the motions at the PDPA. The man only lines his own pockets and doesn’t give a sh*t about players outside the top 10. Nothing will ever change, Mickey. They just don’t care enough." Pipe’s remarks suggest that lower-ranked players are not being taken seriously and that not enough is being done to protect their interests.

The concerns raised by Mansell and Pipe align with the earlier frustrations expressed by other players. Justin Hood had already made his feelings clear about the venue in Rosmalen. "I’m not someone who complains about venues or setups, but wow."

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Daryl Gurney was even more outspoken, openly criticizing the playing conditions and calling out the PDC. "I’m really disappointed with the playing conditions today in Rosmalen. The venue is freezing, and there has been no consideration for the players. A bad decision by the PDC, and the players deserve better!!!"

For professional darts players, a stable and comfortable playing environment is crucial. Temperature and general conditions can significantly affect a player's grip and control over their darts. If a venue is too cold or too warm, it can directly impact performance, making high-level competition even more challenging.

What stands out is that complaints about Players Championship venues are not new. Last year, there were similar issues in Kalkar, where heating units were installed to combat the cold. However, these created too much airflow in the playing area, affecting the flight of the darts and leading to further complaints.

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