"The money doesn't interest me. Money doesn't make you happy" - Josh Rock doesn't care about £1 million prize money and only thinks about PDC World Darts Championship title

Josh Rock hopes to crown his excellent season with a strong result at the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship. When 'Rocky' made his debut at the Alexandra Palace as a 21-year-old talent, he was already named fifth favorite for the title by the bookies. The Northern Irishman later admitted that that pressure was too much for him at the time, but three years later he returns to London with more confidence: he is ready to flourish on the biggest stage of all.

As in his debut year, Rock is high on the bookmakers' list to stand with the Sid Waddell Trophy in his hands in early January. Only Luke Littler, Luke Humphries and Gerwyn Price have lower odds than the current world No. 11. But as mentioned, Rock travels to Ally Pally with a bucket of confidence after a rock-solid 2025.

Together with Daryl Gurney, the now 24-year-old darter from Antrim managed to lead Northern Ireland to a historic final victory at the World Cup of Darts back in June. This victory was the basis for a series of strong TV appearances in the following months. 'Rocky' reached semifinals at the World Matchplay and the World Series of Darts Finals, and most recently reached the quarterfinals at both the Grand Slam of Darts and the Players Championship Finals.

“I’ve had a fantastic year and I’ve gained a lot more experience,” said Rock, who opens his hunt for the world title on Friday, Dec. 19, against Women's Series qualifier Gemma Hayter. “This year is probably the most I have ever looked forward to the World Championship, because I’ve been playing well in most TV tournaments. Hopefully that experience can help me produce the goods this year.”

Since winning his Tour Card in January 2022, Rock has already been mentioned as a future major winner. Now he wants to crown his meteoric rise in recent years with the ultimate title. At this World Championship, there is also a record £1 million waiting for the winner, although Rock stresses that that is of no concern to him. “Being a World Champion means everything to everybody,” said the 24-year-old.

“You obviously get the profile of being a World Champion, so that clearly separates the World Championship from any other tournament. This is what dreams are made of. I’m not worried about the money. Money doesn’t buy happiness. I’d rather have the trophy!” concludes Rock.