Luke Humphries reveals ‘ridiculous’ money darts players make prior to games
Luke Humphries has lifted the lid on a little-known financial perk of professional darts, revealing that players can make “ridiculous” amounts of money before they even throw a dart at major tournaments.
Speaking candidly during the World Darts Championship, the world number one explained that sponsorship obligations, walk-on appearances and media commitments can generate significant income long before match prize money comes into play.
According to Humphries, elite players often earn substantial sums through shirt sponsorships, with logos worn on stage providing guaranteed payments regardless of results. He suggested that for top stars, these deals can sometimes rival — or even exceed — what lower-ranked players make in prize money across an entire season.
“There’s a lot of money made before you play,” Humphries admitted. “People see the prize funds, but they don’t realise how much comes from sponsors just for being there.”
Humphries also pointed to walk-on deals, exhibition agreements and promotional appearances as further revenue streams, particularly at high-profile events like the World Championship. With millions watching worldwide, sponsors are keen to attach themselves to recognisable faces on the sport’s biggest stage.
The revelation comes amid ongoing debate about darts earnings, especially following recent discussions around prize money distribution and leaked payslips from lower-ranked professionals. While stars such as Humphries benefit from lucrative commercial backing, many players outside the elite rely almost entirely on match wins to cover travel and tour costs.
The former world champion was keen to stress that such income reflects years of hard work and consistency at the top level. He noted that sponsorship money is performance-driven and only arrives once players establish themselves as regular contenders on the big stages.
Humphries’ comments highlight the growing commercial power of darts, particularly at Alexandra Palace, where packed crowds, global TV audiences and a festive atmosphere create a perfect showcase for brands.
As the World Darts Championship continues, his admission has given fans a fresh insight into the business side of the sport — revealing that while glory is decided on the oche, serious money can already be in the bank long before the first dart is thrown.
