James Wade Claims PDC Deems Him ‘Too Awkward’ for Premier League Darts

James Wade has expressed great disappointment at not being selected for the Premier League Darts, calling the decision a “complete kick in the privates.” The 42-year-old dart player has had a challenging year, facing both mental health issues and tough competition.

James Wade’s Performance in 2025

This season, Wade reached the finals of both the UK Open and World Matchplay but ultimately fell to Luke Littler. However, his performance at the PDC World Darts Championship was less stellar, as he exited in the second round, losing 3-2 to Ricky Evans. Consequently, he has dropped to 11th place overall in the rankings.

Premier League Darts Snub

Despite being one of the most recognizable figures in darts, Wade was not chosen for any of the four wildcards granted for the Premier League, which starts next Thursday in Newcastle. The PDC and Sky Sports opted for Jonny Clayton, Josh Rock, Stephen Bunting, and Gerwyn Price instead. Additionally, automatic picks included Luke Littler, Luke Humphries, Gian van Veen, and Michael van Gerwen due to their standings in the world’s top four.

Wade’s Self-Reflection

Wade attributes his omission partly to his “awkward” personality and candid nature. He believes this has affected his acceptance within the elite ranks. Throughout his career, Wade has faced criticism for several instances, including a controversial handshake incident and an unusual on-stage interaction with Humphries during the UK Open.

Mental Health Challenges

The Aldershot native has been open about his struggles with bipolar disorder and ADHD, which complicate his emotional responses to setbacks. He remarked on how the Premier League exclusion is particularly difficult for someone facing mental health challenges.

Future Prospects

Wade retains hope for future opportunities in darts. He has indicated that there are only a few players who performed better than him this past year. While he has previously won the Premier League in 2009, Wade has not participated since 2022.

PDC’s Response

The PDC acknowledged Wade’s sentiments, stating, “Selection for the Premier League is always an extensively discussed topic, and we respect James’ opinion.” They noted that he has been selected for various invitational events in the past and remains eligible for future selections.

As Wade reflects on a difficult season, he emphasizes the importance of resilience and understanding, both for himself and for his family. He aspires to advocate for better mental health awareness, especially for his son, as he navigates the complexities of competitive sports.