In a powerful show of solidarity, tournament sponsor Paddy Power has launched a unique visual campaign at the PDC World Darts Championship to support player Ryan Searle and raise awareness for his rare genetic eye condition.
Blurred Logos Highlight Searle's Vision Challenge
The initiative, visible at Alexandra Palace during the 2025/26 championship semi-finals, sees Paddy Power deliberately blur its branding across the venue. This includes the iconic '180' boards held by fans, stage-side tables, and digital signage. The distorted visuals are designed to give spectators an insight into the impaired vision Searle manages every day due to Autosomal Dominant Optic Atrophy (ADOA).
Searle, nicknamed 'Heavy Metal', secured his place in the last four with a 5-2 quarter-final victory over fifth seed Jonny Clayton on 2 January 2026. He was set to face the sensational Luke Littler, while Gary Anderson met Gian van Veen on the same semi-final night. His impressive run is made all the more remarkable by his sight challenges.
Understanding ADOA: A Hereditary Condition
ADOA is a rare genetic disorder that causes the deterioration of the optic nerve, leading to progressive and irreversible sight loss in both eyes. Symptoms include blurred vision and difficulty recognising colours. For a professional darts player, this often means Searle cannot see where his dart has landed, sometimes forcing him to ask the caller what he has scored.
The 38-year-old former window cleaner revealed the condition is hereditary and he has passed it to both of his children. "My daughter has it really bad... she's registered as visually impaired," Searle explained, highlighting his personal motivation. "So, if I can raise a lot of awareness for that and try and find a cure for it, that means a lot to me." He only received a formal diagnosis in the last 18 months.
Fundraising and Future Impact
Searle's efforts have already helped raise over £15,000 for the Cure ADOA Foundation. Paddy Power has pledged to match this total, significantly boosting the fundraising drive. The campaign aims not only to generate funds but also to inspire others.
"If I can inspire people who maybe can’t see as well as others to pick up the game and give it a go, then that means a lot to me," Searle stated. The sponsor's innovative approach transforms the championship stage into a platform for advocacy, demonstrating how sport can champion important health causes beyond the competition itself.
