Luke Littler has been warned about the financial realities of professional darts after his landmark £1m prize for winning the PDC World Darts Championship will be reduced by nearly half due to tax and other deductions.
The 18-year-old defended his title on Saturday with a 7-1 victory over Gian van Veen, becoming the first player to receive a seven-figure prize pot. However, taxation specialist Nicole Zalys of The London Accountant said Littler will face a 45% income tax rate on his earnings, amounting to £450,000.
Additionally, as a self-employed professional, he is liable for National Insurance contributions at 2% on earnings above £50,270, adding around £20,000. Combined, nearly £470,000 of his winnings will be deducted.
Former darts pro Paul Nicholson previously highlighted hidden costs in the sport, including a 2% levy by the PDPA and management fees. He noted that even top players face significant expenses that reduce actual earnings, stating that being a dart player is 'not as luxurious as people think'.
Littler's next chance to add to his earnings comes in February with the Premier League, where he is confirmed to compete alongside Luke Humphries, Gian van Veen, and Michael van Gerwen.
