Who won the most darts world titles?

By Jayson Panganiban December 05, 2023 00:53

Photo by Getty Images

Darts is a popular sport enjoyed by millions around the world. The World Professional Darts Championship is one of the most prestigious tournaments in the darts calendar. Over the years, several talented players have competed for the title, but only a select few have managed to claim multiple championships. In this article, we will delve into the history of the World Professional Darts Championship and explore the players who have won the most world titles.

The Split and the Birth of the PDC Championship

The World Professional Darts Championship was originally held as an annual event from 1978 to 1993. However, a split in the game resulted in the creation of two separate organizations, the British Darts Organisation (BDO) and the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC). As a result, two different World Championships emerged, leading to the absence of a unified world champion for nearly three decades.

The BDO Championship

The BDO version of the World Professional Darts Championship was held at various venues, including the Lakeside Leisure Complex. It saw the rise of several notable players, including Eric Bristow and Phil Taylor. However, in 2020, the BDO went into liquidation, bringing an end to their version of the world championship.

The PDC Championship

Since 1994, the Professional Darts Corporation has been organizing its own World Darts Championship. The tournament has gained immense popularity and is currently held at Alexandra Palace in London. Phil Taylor, often regarded as one of the greatest darts players of all time, has been the dominant force in the PDC Championship, winning it a record 14 times. He has set an unprecedented standard of excellence in the sport.

Other Multiple Winners

While Phil Taylor holds the record for the most World Championships won, there have been other players who have achieved multiple victories as well. John Part, Adrian Lewis, Gary Anderson, Michael van Gerwen, and Peter Wright are among the players who have tasted success on more than one occasion. Each of these players has made significant contributions to the sport and has left an indelible mark on the World Professional Darts Championship.

Prize Money and Recognition

Over the years, the prize fund for the World Professional Darts Championship has seen a significant increase. The current winner of the PDC Championship receives a staggering £500,000. This substantial prize money reflects the growing stature of the sport and its global appeal. The PDC Championship is now the only recognized world championship in darts, following the liquidation of the BDO.

The World Professional Darts Championship is a highly esteemed tournament in the world of darts. Phil Taylor, with his exceptional skill and dominance, holds the record for the most World Championships won with 14 titles. However, he is not alone in his success, as other players such as John Part, Adrian Lewis, Gary Anderson, Michael van Gerwen, and Peter Wright have also made their mark on the championship. The growth of the prize fund and the recognition of the PDC Championship as the premier darts tournament further emphasizes the significance of this event. As the championship continues to evolve, fans eagerly await the emergence of new talents and the possibility of witnessing history being made on the dartboard.