James Wade Hits Out at PDC Snub: 'Kick in the Privates'
James Wade, the darts world’s enduring powerhouse known as 'The Machine,' has unleashed a candid and emotional critique of the PDC's decision to exclude him from the 2026 Premier League Darts. In a raw interview, the 42-year-old Aldershot native described the snub as "a complete kick in the privates," linking it to his self-perceived 'awkward' personality and ongoing mental health battles with bipolar disorder and ADHD.
Wade's Stellar Yet Overlooked 2025 Season
Despite a challenging end to 2025, Wade's year was far from lackluster. Seeded seventh at the PDC World Darts Championship, he reached the finals of both the UK Open and World Matchplay, only to fall short against teenage sensation Luke Littler. These near-misses highlighted Wade's enduring talent, even as he slipped to 11th in the world rankings after a second-round exit to Ricky Evans at Ally Pally.
Wade's longevity in the sport is unmatched. A Tour card holder since 2004, he’s one of the most recognizable figures in darts, with a career boasting a 2009 Premier League title and two other finals appearances. His last Premier League stint was in 2022, and he’s now watching from the sidelines as the 17-week, eight-man invitational kicks off in Newcastle on Thursday.
Wildcard Choices Spark Debate
The PDC and Sky Sports opted for wildcards Jonny Clayton, Josh Rock, Stephen Bunting, and Gerwyn Price, joining automatic qualifiers Luke Littler, Luke Humphries, Gian van Gerwen, and Michael van Gerwen. Wade, who believes only Littler, Humphries, and van Gerwen outperformed him statistically over the past year, sees no logical reason for his omission beyond personal factors.
"There’s only three players that did better than me. Statistics, facts don’t lie," Wade stated, questioning if his weight, age, or looks played a role—only to dismiss each, pointing to included players who share similar traits. Instead, he pins it on his 'awkward' character, shaped by mental health challenges that make social interactions and media scrutiny particularly taxing.
Mental Health in the High-Stakes Darts Arena
Wade's openness about his bipolar disorder and ADHD adds a poignant layer to this controversy. The father of two revealed that his youngest son grapples with similar issues, amplifying the personal impact of the snub. "For someone with mental illness, it’s quite hard to chew," he admitted, describing how the rejection has eroded his confidence at a vulnerable time.
In darts, a sport demanding laser focus and emotional resilience, mental health discussions are gaining traction. Wade's story echoes broader conversations in sports, where athletes like him face stigma alongside the pressure of performance. His history of on-stage altercations, press conference spats, and infamous incidents—like licking Luke Humphries on the neck before a 2025 UK Open match or a recent 'disrespectful' handshake row with Madars Razma—paints him as a maverick. Yet, Wade insists this 'awkwardness' stems from an inner 11-year-old struggling with acceptance.
"I’m bloody awkward. I know I’m awkward. It’s not great for me, though, because I get in loads of trouble," he confessed. This vulnerability contrasts with his robotic nickname, humanizing a player who's entertained fans for two decades.
Upcoming Challenges and Rivalries
As Wade prepares for the Winmau World Masters, where he faces Gary Anderson in the second round—another darts rebel—the snub lingers. Anderson, known for his own outspoken nature, could provide an ally in this narrative of overlooked veterans. Wade's recent form dip, including a disappointing World Championship, underscores the mental toll, but his resolve remains fierce.
The Premier League's exclusion isn't just a professional slight; it's a business decision, as Wade acknowledges. "I wasn’t in their business model, which is fair enough." Still, it raises questions about inclusivity in elite darts. Should the PDC prioritize marketability over merit, especially for players with mental health hurdles? Fans and pundits are divided, with social media buzzing over whether Wade's candor will rally support or further isolate him.
James Wade's Legacy: Beyond the Board
Wade's career is a testament to perseverance. From his 2009 Premier League triumph to consistent Tour performances, he's bridged eras in darts, witnessing the rise of Littler and van Gerwen. His 2025 highlights—UK Open and Matchplay finals—prove he's no has-been, yet the snub signals a potential shift toward youth and flashier personas.
Experts suggest this could motivate a comeback. Darts historian and commentator Sid Waddell once called Wade a 'thinking man's thrower,' and his analytical mind might now turn inward for redemption. As the Premier League unfolds without him, all eyes will be on Wade's response in upcoming events like the World Masters and European Tour stops.
In an era where mental health awareness is paramount, Wade's voice could spark change. By sharing his struggles, he challenges the PDC to reconsider how it supports its stars. Whether this 'kick in the privates' propels him to glory or deepens his frustrations, one thing's clear: James Wade remains darts' unfiltered heartbeat.
This article reflects on Wade's statements and career context as of January 2026. Darts remains a dynamic sport, with rankings and events evolving rapidly.
