The darts world was left buzzing recently when the lineup for the 2026 Premier League Darts was announced, featuring a fresh mix of established stars and rising talents—but notably without one of the sport’s most beloved and decorated figures, Gary Anderson.
The two-time Premier League champion and two-time PDC World Darts Champion, affectionately known as “The Flying Scotsman,” has been a fixture in the sport for years, captivating fans with his effortless style, trademark walk-on, and clutch performances on the biggest stages. At 55, Anderson delivered a remarkable resurgence at the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship, storming into the semi-finals before falling to Gian van Veen. That impressive run boosted him to world number six on the two-year PDC Order of Merit, putting him in strong contention for consideration.
Yet, when the PDC revealed the eight-player field—automatic qualifiers Luke Littler (the reigning world champion), Luke Humphries (last year’s Premier League winner), Gian van Veen, and Michael van Gerwen, joined by PDC wildcards Gerwyn Price, Stephen Bunting, Jonny Clayton, and Josh Rock—Anderson’s name was absent. The snub, however, carried an unexpected twist.
Anderson has been open about his reluctance to return to the Premier League in recent years, citing the grueling schedule as a major factor. The competition spans 17 intense weeks, with matches in different cities across multiple countries, demanding constant travel, hotel stays, and high-stakes pressure every Thursday night. For a veteran who has already conquered the event twice—in 2011 and 2015—and tasted glory across numerous majors, the physical and mental toll has become too much.
“I’ve done the Premier League. But I couldn’t do it and I would say no,” Anderson stated firmly in a recent interview, reflecting on the hectic demands. He emphasized the sacrifices involved: “If I done the Premier League, Europeans gone, Players Championship gone. I couldn’t give a monkeys [if I’m world champion]. I can’t do it, it’s been great the years I’ve done it.”
He has spoken passionately about the toll of constant globetrotting, noting how he has “been all over the world and… loved it,” visiting dream destinations through darts. But the Premier League’s relentless pace stands out as particularly punishing: “It’s a hectic schedule. It’s really bad especially for the Premier League players.”
In a candid revelation that surprised many, Anderson admitted he actually **felt ‘sick’** upon learning he wasn’t invited to the 2026 edition. Far from a change of heart or regret over missing out on the action, his reaction stemmed from the opposite: relief mixed with the strange disappointment of not even being given the chance to decline.
The Scottish legend explained that he was ‘sick’ about not being asked by the PDC—not because he wanted in, but because the lack of an invitation removed his opportunity to officially turn it down. It was a peculiar feeling for a player who has repeatedly shut the door on a return, prioritizing a more manageable schedule that allows him to compete selectively while preserving his health and enjoyment of the game.
This stance hasn’t wavered, even amid fan campaigns and speculation during his World Championship heroics. Young stars like Gian van Veen (who defeated Anderson in the semis) and Luke Littler have even tried to sway him, but Anderson remains resolute.
The 2026 Premier League, kicking off in Newcastle on February 5, promises an exciting battle among the sport’s elite, with massive prize money on the line—the champion set to claim £350,000. While Anderson’s absence leaves a void for fans who adore his charisma and big-stage magic, it also underscores his legacy: a champion who knows when to step back and protect what matters most.
For “The Flying Scotsman,” darts remains a passion, but on his own terms. And in an era of relentless competition, that choice speaks volumes about the man behind the arrows.
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