Gary Anderson demands changes in PDC prize money: players should get paid from the early rounds.

Gary Anderson raises his voice about the prize money at the World Darts Championship

According to The Sun: Darts star Gary Anderson has called on the PDC to change the prize money system at this year's World Championship.

This year, the winner will receive a record £1 million—double the £500,000 that Luke Littler won at the previous tournament.

Players' expenses and their financial challenges

The two-time world champion hopes for victory but believes that more funds should go to players competing in the early stages of the tournament.

Anderson noted that many are unaware of the expenses that players are trying to cover, highlighting their financial struggles.

“I wish good luck to whoever wins it, but I would prefer if some of this money went to the early rounds,” Anderson said.

He shared that he has paid £1,600 three times before participating in the European Darts Grand Prix, which he actually won.

The amount of expenses quickly adds up: “It's so expensive for many guys on the tour. Before I even throw a dart in Germany, I'm already £1,600 in debt for flights, hotels, transfers – it all adds up quickly.”

Prize fund and entry requirements

This year, the total prize fund for the tournament will be £5 million, and the number of participants will increase from 96 to 128.

Despite the desire to win money, Anderson opted out of participating in the World Series of Darts in Amsterdam last month.

“I think I was on holiday. And in general, if I'm not good enough to qualify, I shouldn't be invited,” he stated.

Gary also added that players who traveled across Australia, Japan, and New Zealand deserve their chance.

Upcoming plans and ambitions

Anderson, 55, will meet darts legend Raymond van Barneveld at the World Grand Prix in Leicester on Monday.

He mentioned that he wants to be the first player to win a six-figure jackpot.

“Oh, yes. You'll see all the greedy people trying!” he commented about the race for victory.

Anderson also emphasized that the World Championship should remain at Alexandra Palace, despite rumors about a possible relocation.

“It's like the Play match in Blackpool. It's about this tournament. I still nostalgically remember the Civic Hall...” he emphasized.

Gary Anderson has become a social voice in the world of darts, currently pointing out the importance of equitable distribution of prize money for all participants. With the start of the World Championship, we see players not only competing for the title of champion but also for their financial stability. His comments indicate the need for the tournament to adapt to the increasing number of participants and expenses to maintain fairness in the competitions.