Karaoke-loving Motomu Sakai is World Championship cult hero who only took up darts to get a GIRLFRIEND
Karaoke-Loving Motomu Sakai: World Championship Cult Hero Who Only Took Up Darts to Get a Girlfriend
Every year, the World Darts Championship produces unlikely stars, but few have captured hearts quite like Motomu Sakai. With his infectious smile, love of karaoke and refreshingly honest backstory, the Japanese thrower has quickly become a cult hero at Alexandra Palace.
Sakai’s journey into darts is unlike most. While many professionals pick up the arrows chasing trophies or sporting glory, Sakai has openly admitted his original motivation was far more personal — he started playing darts in the hope it might help him meet a girlfriend.
That candid confession alone endeared him to fans, but it was his personality on the Ally Pally stage that truly sealed his status. Singing, smiling and soaking up every second of the spotlight, Sakai looked more like a man living out a dream than someone burdened by the pressure of the sport’s biggest tournament.
Karaoke, charisma and crowd love
Away from darts, Sakai is known for his passion for karaoke, something that perfectly matches the party atmosphere of Ally Pally. Fans quickly embraced him as one of their own, chanting his name and celebrating his every big moment — whether it was a crucial checkout or simply another joyful grin to the crowd.
Social media lit up with clips of Sakai enjoying the occasion, with supporters praising him for bringing fun, warmth and authenticity to a tournament often dominated by intense rivalries and high stakes.
A reminder of what Ally Pally is about
While Sakai may not have arrived as a favourite to lift the trophy, his impact went far beyond results. In a championship known for fancy dress, singalongs and unforgettable characters, he stood out as a reminder of why the World Darts Championship is so special.
It’s not just about averages and titles — it’s about stories, personalities and moments that connect players with fans.
Whether or not darts ultimately helped Sakai find love off the oche, one thing is certain: at Ally Pally, Motomu Sakai found something just as powerful — a place in World Championship folklore and the affection of darts fans around the world.
