“I don’t think that’s fair on them”: James Wade not willing to sacrifice watching his kids grow up to continue darting career
James Wade has opened up about the difficult balance between professional ambition and family life, revealing that he is no longer prepared to put darts ahead of watching his children grow up. The former Premier League champion, one of the sport’s longest-serving stars, spoke with refreshing honesty about what the future might look like as he approaches the later stages of his career.
Wade, now a veteran presence on the PDC circuit, has been increasingly candid about his priorities shifting away from the relentless tour grind. And this week, he made it clearer than ever.
Wade: “My kids come first — it’s that simple”
Known for his blunt but thoughtful manner, Wade explained that the constant travel demands of professional darts are becoming harder to justify.
“I don’t think that’s fair on them,” Wade admitted.
“I love darts, I love competing, but my kids come first now. I’m not willing to miss important moments in their lives just to keep playing week in, week out.”
The Machine added that the emotional toll of time away from home has grown stronger over the last couple of years.
A career full of highlights — but no regrets about slowing down
Wade remains one of the most successful players in modern darts: a major winner, a Premier League champion, and a consistent force at televised events for nearly two decades. But he insists that stepping back from a full schedule doesn’t mean a lack of hunger—rather, a rebalancing of what matters most.
“I’ve done this for a long time. I’ve got trophies I’m proud of and memories I’ll never forget. But I don’t want my kids’ memories to be of me being away all the time.”
Despite rumours that he could retire soon, Wade clarified that he still intends to play—but only on his own terms.
Part-time schedule possible? Wade hints at a new chapter
The 41-year-old suggested he may reduce his calendar in future seasons, focusing on selected majors and minimising long stints on the road.
“There’s nothing wrong with playing less. If I can still compete and enjoy it while being there for my family, that’s the ideal scenario.”
His comments reflect a broader conversation in modern sport as athletes increasingly strive to protect their wellbeing and family life without ending their careers prematurely.
A respected figure making his own choice
Wade has never been afraid to go against the grain, and fans have largely praised him for the honesty and courage in his latest admission. Many argued that his longevity and achievements mean he has earned the right to dictate his own schedule.
Whether Wade plays a reduced calendar next season or takes a bigger step back, one thing is clear: family will guide the decision.
“Darts has given me everything,” Wade concluded,
“but I’m not willing to miss my children growing up. That comes before anything else.”
