Ryan Searle Highlights Visual Impairment Awareness at Darts Championship

Ryan Searle made a significant impact at the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship, showcasing his skills while also raising awareness for visual impairment. Known for his talent on the Pro Tour, Searle advanced to the semi-finals, marking his best championship performance to date.

Equipment Change and Mental Shift

A pivotal moment in Searle’s journey was adjusting his equipment just before the championship. Traditionally, he waits until after the New Year for such changes. However, this time he felt compelled to make adjustments to improve his mindset.

“I felt like I probably wasn’t putting enough effort in on the board,” Searle said, recognizing the need for a mental reset rather than a quick fix. This recalibration proved effective, as seen in his first-round match against Chris Landman, where he won decisively with a 3-0 scoreline.

Consistent Performance Throughout the Tournament

Throughout the championship, Searle exhibited remarkable concentration. He emphasized, “I went 17 consecutive sets without dropping one.” This enhanced focus was essential, especially given previous challenges with maintaining concentration under pressure.

Key Matches and Valuable Lessons

Searle faced tough competitors, including Martin Schindler, who had previously defeated him in a European Tour final. He approached this match with a determined mindset, not viewing it purely as a chance for revenge. His semi-final encounter against Luke Littler was particularly instructive, culminating in a stunning 170 checkout that gained attention online.

Advocacy for Visual Impairment Awareness

Beyond his performance, Searle’s journey also spotlighted his advocacy work. He supports the Cure ADOA Foundation, which funds research into autosomal dominant optic atrophy, a condition he was diagnosed with after his daughter.

• Searle emphasizes that raising awareness is vital: “If it raises awareness, that’s what matters.”
• Paddy Power blurred sponsor branding during the championship to highlight these efforts.

Inspiring Others

Searle’s achievements serve as motivation for individuals with visual impairments. His story underscores that perceived limitations can be overcome, encouraging ongoing discussions about inclusivity and support in the sport.

Looking Toward the Future

As the new season approaches, Searle prepares for competitions like the Winmau World Masters. Although he has not practiced extensively since the World Championship, he aims to strengthen his training.

“I haven’t practiced loads since the Worlds, just ticking over,” he mentioned, expressing freedom from ranking pressures that had previously hindered his focus. With renewed confidence in his abilities, Searle looks forward to channeling the concentration he cultivated during the championship into future matches, stating, “I don’t see any reason why I can’t keep doing that.”