In a surprising move that highlights the financial realities for touring professionals, Australian darts star Raymond Smith has confirmed he will reject a potential spot in the multi-million pound PDC World Darts Championship, even if he qualifies.
The Financial Equation Behind a Shocking Snub
Smith is set to turn down the Alexandra Palace tournament, where the total prize fund has doubled to an incredible £5 million for the 2026 event starting December 11. The winner at Ally Pally will bank a life-changing £1 million, with first-round losers still receiving a hefty £15,000.
Instead, the 45-year-old will honour his commitment to compete in the WDF World Championship at the Lakeside. The financial contrast is stark, with the total prize fund at Lakeside standing at just £221,000 across its open, women’s, youth, and girls’ tournaments. The winner of the men's open section will receive £50,000, while first-round losers get only £750.
Pre-Booked Plans and a Calculated Decision
Smith, who qualified for Lakeside back in February, insists his decision is a matter of simple economics. Players are not permitted to compete in both championships, forcing a choice.
He explained to Tungsten Tales: "For me, it [the decision] was a non-event, it was always going to be Lakeside. I qualified for Lakeside in February, I had everything booked and paid for. So, if I wanted to change my mind now, I’m out about $7,000, $8,000 (£3,940) straight off the bat."
The additional costs of a last-minute switch to Ally Pally made the prospect financially unviable. He estimated that finding late accommodation and air fares for London would add another $10,000 (£4,926) to his expenses.
A Strategic Comeback and Contrasting Choices
Smith is no stranger to the Ally Pally stage, having reached the last 16 in the 2022 tournament. However, after experiencing some health issues, he has a deliberate plan to rebuild his form gradually.
"I’m trying to stick to the plan because ultimately getting back to Ally Pally is the end game," Smith stated. "But I don’t want to just go over there and fall flat on my face again. I want to be able to try and find out where I’m at and then go back there and attack it."
His choice stands in sharp contrast to that of the sport's top female player, three-time WDF women’s world champion Beau Greaves, who has decided to play at Alexandra Palace after qualifying via the PDC’s Challenge Tour.
The WDF World Championship runs from Friday, November 28 to Sunday, December 7. Smith's next chance to qualify for the PDC event is if he wins the ANZ Premier League play-offs in Brisbane on Saturday, a spot he now intends to decline.
