"We owe Sky a massive debt, but I really hope they raise the ante" - With TV rights nearing an end, Barry Hearn sends warning to Sky Sports

Sky Sports has been broadcasting most of the PDC's major darts tournaments since the early years. However, their contract expires next year and it remains to be seen whether it will be renewed.

British broadcaster Sky Sports covered the very first World Matchplay in 1994 and has been a loyal partner of the PDC at most major tournaments since then. "Listen, we owe Sky a massive, massive debt. They stuck with us in the early days, and loyalty is a big part of our business," said PDC president Barry Hearn in his own show on Spotify. "But, also, I have a responsibility to players to maximise their earnings."

Indeed, today's top players pocket significantly higher sums than those of the past. Luke Humphries took home £500,000 for his win at this year's World Darts Championship, eclipsing Dennis Priestley's £16,000 prize from 1994 by some considerable distance.

"There’s going to be some interesting conversations," Hearn continued. "I really – I’ve got to tell you now – I really hope Sky raise the ante, understand what they’ve built. Understand what it's worth. Compare us to anyone else, I don't mind. Show me what you pay rugby union, rugby league. Show me what you pay golf, and tell me why I don't get the same or more."

"It’s my job, it’s a passion, and I'm building something that is, in my own way, my own legacy for when I'm not around. I would like the darts player in 50 years' time to raise a glass to me. Is that big-headed?" Hearn asks. "I don’t really care if it is – because I know I'm doing a good job. Everybody's got to do well out of this deal, it has got to work for everyone, and I hope it’s Sky because they deserve to keep it because of the work they put on."

Hearn, however, is confident that things will work out. "Respect. Just give us respect and we’ll be fine. We’ll be fine and we‘ll deliver value on a global scale you've not seen before."