Keith Deller criticizes loss of character in modern darts

Former darts world champion Keith Deller has commented on how the rapid growth of prize money and increased professionalism have transformed the sport. Deller, the 1983 champion, noted that annual prize money within the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) has risen to over £25 million, creating a different environment for competitors.

Deller suggested that the high financial stakes have led to a loss of unique personalities in the game. He observed that modern players must be more cautious regarding their behavior to avoid significant fines for misconduct. Furthermore, he noted that the intense level of professional support and the omnipresence of social media and smartphones have altered player interactions, making the casual social connections common in his era, such as sharing a drink with opponents after a match, less frequent.