According to a recent survey, more than half of Brits do not consider darts a legitimate sport. The research, which polled 2,000 adults, found that 56% of respondents do not see darts as a sport, with many viewing it more as a leisure activity than a competitive endeavour. This perception stems from a perceived lack of physical exertion associated with darts, leading to doubts about its classification as a sport. Additionally, there is scepticism around the idea of including darts in prestigious events like the Olympic Games, with 40% of those surveyed dismissing it as merely a game.
The survey also revealed doubts about other activities such as axe-throwing and snooker, with poker and chess also being questioned as fitting within the sports category. However, TV personality and darts enthusiast Bobby Seagull argues against underestimating darts, pointing out key qualities shared with top-tier sports. Seagull emphasises the darts players’ exceptional concentration levels, intense commitment to honing their skills, and superior mental arithmetic abilities. Despite not conforming to the traditional image of elite athletes, Seagull highlights the dedication required to excel in darts, challenging perceptions of it being just a casual pub game.
As part of a collaboration with Lottoland, Seagull introduced their PDC World Darts Championship slot game, aiming to showcase the skill and passion involved in darts. He acknowledges that while darts may still be viewed as a social pastime, the level of dedication and skill needed to succeed in the sport is often underestimated. The survey also found that 77% of Brits have tried their hand at darts, with only 3% describing their skills as “excellent.” A significant portion, 40%, rated their skills as “average,” while 11% admitted to being “terrible” at the game.
Among regular players, 30% expressed a desire to improve their accuracy, while one in five recognised the need for greater consistency in their performance. A spokesperson for Lottoland highlighted the evolution of darts from a pub game to a sport that demands precision and mental focus comparable to more physically demanding sports like football. They noted the increasing popularity of darts, influenced by rising stars in the sport, such as Luke Littler, inspiring more people to explore and participate in darts.
Despite the prevailing perception that darts may not be a conventional sport, the study underscores the mental acuity and skill required to excel in the game. The dedication of darts players to mastering their craft and the growing enthusiasm for the sport among the public challenge preconceived notions about darts as merely a recreational activity. As the popularity of darts continues to rise and more individuals engage with the sport, the argument for recognising darts as a legitimate sport gains momentum, highlighting the diverse and evolving landscape of competitive activities.