Gary Anderson Unleashes Fury on Darts 'Influencers' Following Victory
Two-time world champion Gary Anderson has sparked controversy with an explosive post-match rant targeting so-called 'influencers' within the darts community. The fiery outburst came immediately after the Scottish veteran secured his opening victory at the prestigious Winmau World Masters tournament on Thursday evening.
Victory Overshadowed by Controversial Comments
Anderson, currently ranked world number six, demonstrated his competitive resilience by coming from behind to defeat Dutch opponent Niels Zonneveld in a tense 3-2 encounter. However, it was his subsequent press conference remarks that dominated headlines rather than his on-stage performance.
The 55-year-old didn't hold back during his media appearance, delivering a blistering assessment of social media personalities who offer darts tutorials and advice. "We've got, what do you call them? Influencers? How to play darts," Anderson began. "I've never seen the bloke in my life, I've watched him play darts, he's absolutely w*** at it. So why watch him?"
Passionate Advice for Young Players
Anderson's central concern focused on the potential negative impact these figures might have on aspiring darts players, particularly younger enthusiasts. He offered straightforward, practical advice that contrasted sharply with what he perceives as influencer culture.
"Kids need to learn they can go buy a set of darts that cost you £10, £20, £40, £50," Anderson emphasized. "Instead of spending hundreds of pounds on darts and play the game. Influencers? What a load of b******s. Absolutely t*****s."
The Scottish star concluded with characteristically blunt guidance: "It's a load of rubbish. For young kids, it ain't good. Just let them play darts and enjoy. Buy a £20 set of darts and go and enjoy your game of darts. End of. Easy."
Context and Industry Reaction
While Anderson didn't name specific individuals, his comments arrive at a particularly relevant moment within darts circles. Recent announcements revealed that popular YouTuber and I'm a Celebrity winner Morgan Burtwistle, known online as 'Angry Ginge', is considering entering the PDC Qualifying School.
Burtwistle maintains a close friendship with teenage darts sensation Luke Littler and was part of his support team during Littler's remarkable PDC World Championship triumph. This connection has brought increased attention to the intersection between social media influence and professional darts.
Former professional player Matthew Edgar offered a contrasting perspective on the Mission Darts Podcast, suggesting that Burtwistle's potential journey into competitive darts could benefit the sport. "I think it would be good for the game," Edgar stated. "If he was to show some progression from where he is now, it will show people that it's a potential avenue and it's an actual journey. So I'm all for it, to be honest."
Tournament Progress and Next Challenge
Despite the controversy surrounding his comments, Anderson remains focused on his World Masters campaign. His hard-fought victory against Zonneveld saw him recover from losing the opening set to eventually triumph in a deciding fifth set, demonstrating the competitive spirit that has defined his career.
The Scottish veteran now prepares for a significant second-round encounter against fellow experienced campaigner James Wade scheduled for Saturday. This match promises to be a compelling clash between two of darts' most established and respected competitors.
Anderson's unfiltered comments have ignited debate within the darts community about the role of social media influencers in traditional sports, the accessibility of the game for newcomers, and the pathways to professional success. His passionate defense of fundamental participation over perceived commercialized instruction reflects deeper concerns about sporting culture in the digital age.
