Darts Star Leaks PDC Payslip Showing Earnings at World Championship
A darts professional has lifted the lid on how much players actually earn at the World Darts Championship after leaking a PDC payslip online, sparking widespread discussion among fans.
The payslip, shared on social media, revealed a detailed breakdown of the player’s tournament earnings, including prize money and deductions, offering a rare glimpse behind the scenes of professional darts. While headline prize funds at Alexandra Palace regularly make the news, the document showed the reality of what players take home after early-round appearances.
The leaked slip confirmed that players receive payment based strictly on how far they progress in the tournament, with first-round losers earning significantly less than many fans might expect. It also highlighted deductions such as management fees and other standard costs, underlining that prize money figures often look more impressive on paper than in reality.
The revelation has reignited debate about the financial pressures faced by lower-ranked professionals. While stars who reach the latter stages of the World Championship can earn life-changing sums, those eliminated early often rely on sponsorships and regular tour events to stay afloat.
Many fans reacted with surprise at how modest the earnings can be for players who fail to make deep runs, especially given the tournament’s huge global audience and sold-out crowds at Alexandra Palace. Others praised the transparency, saying it helped explain why securing a tour card and consistent results are vital for survival on the circuit.
The PDC has not commented directly on the leaked payslip, but the figures align with its published prize-money structure. Still, the incident has provided a rare and eye-opening insight into the financial realities of professional darts — reminding supporters that behind the glitz of the World Championship, many players are still fighting to make a living from the sport.
