Darts star reveals he wants to change jobs and there are ‘100 things’ he’d rather do but sport ‘pays the bills’

Joe Cullen Admits He Would Quit Darts for Another Career if the Money Matched

Joe Cullen has revealed that he would happily leave professional darts behind if he could earn the same income in another career.

The world No. 31 admitted that, despite nearly 20 years on the PDC circuit, competing in darts is far from his favourite activity. While grateful for the opportunities the sport has given him, the 37-year-old says there are countless other things he would rather be doing.

Speaking on the Tops and Tales podcast, Cullen explained that years on tour have taken their toll.

“I think it’s because I’ve been doing it for so long,” he said. “It feels like I’ve been around forever because I started so young.”

He went on to admit that, if another profession offered comparable earnings, he would seriously consider making the switch.

“If I could find another job that paid as well, I’d definitely do it. I’m not stupid enough to think I’m not lucky to be where I am and do what I do. But I could name 100 things I’d rather do than play darts. Darts just happens to pay the bills.”

Retirement Isn’t a Simple Decision

Although Cullen has discussed walking away from the sport with his wife on several occasions, he believes retirement isn’t as straightforward as it might seem.

He revealed that his wife has often suggested he simply stop playing if he no longer enjoys it, but Cullen pointed out that stepping away could make a future comeback extremely difficult.

He also highlighted the responsibilities that come with being a professional player, including sponsorship agreements and other contractual commitments.

According to Cullen, the financial rewards available at the top level are another major reason to continue.

“The pay is pretty good if you can get good at it,” he said. “I’d be stupid to give it all up on a whim.”

Still Determined to Compete

Despite admitting his frustrations, Cullen insists he has no intention of quietly fading away from the professional scene.

The former Masters champion has not reached the quarter-finals of a televised major since the 2024 World Grand Prix, although his performances this season have shown signs of improvement. He reached the final of Players Championship Eight and is hoping to rediscover the form that earned him the 2022 World Masters title and a place in the Premier League final.

Cullen believes his consistency is often overlooked.

“I don’t want to be someone who just fizzles out and disappears,” he said. “That’s up to me to change.”

He also questioned the praise given to some players, pointing out that he continues to qualify for every major televised event despite describing the last four years of his own career as disappointing.

“I’ve probably had four poor years, and I’m still playing in all the TV events,” Cullen said. “I must be doing something right. If I really put the effort in instead of just turning up, I believe I can do some damage and maybe even win another title.”