Few contestants World Cup of Darts might prefer to be elsewhere this weekend. But Scotland’s Gary Anderson has rarely conformed to the expected narrative
With a legacy firmly cemented in darting history, the Scot will forever be mentioned in conversations about the all-time greats. A two-time PDC World Champion, multiple major winner, and a man who helped define an era, The Flying Scotsman isn’t just still competing – he’s still winning.
Now 54, Anderson remains one of the most dangerous players on the PDC circuit. And when he finds his rhythm, very few in the world can live with him. Whether it’s sheer scoring power or that trademark effortless throw, ‘The Flying Scotsman‘ on song is still a sight to behold.
But with the glittering years behind him and the twilight of his career on the horizon, how does he really feel about still mixing it with the elite? Gary recently spoke to Phill Barrs of Online Darts to share his thoughts on the present – and the future:
“Well, when I am not busy at the lakes, I squeeze in a few tournaments in between.”
That casual remark refers to Anderson’s four large fishing lakes on his property – a passion project for the Scotsman and, by the sounds of it, a peaceful alternative to the full-throttle world of professional darts. But it also reflects the ease with which he seems to navigate his schedule these days. His squeezing in reference pertains to high-level events that feature the very best in the world. Of course, there are times when the signs of age creep in – even for one of the game’s finest.
“There are days I’ll turn up and feel like I can play 24/7. Then others when it seems like I’ve not thrown for six months. But I have nothing to lose now – I just get up there and enjoy myself.”
That sense of freedom is clearly a motivator. Anderson no longer plays for ranking or reputation; he plays because he loves it. And that shows in his relaxed yet still dangerous presence on the oche. When it comes to the Premier League – once a stage he graced with flair and dominance – Anderson is clear in his feelings.
“I’d sooner throw a party than play on it. The PDC don’t need to apologise for not having me. Sixteen weeks is a long shift and the travelling is too much. You leave your house on the Wednesday, play on the Thursday, then possibly off to a Euro Tour the next morning. Often, it means you don’t get back home until the Monday or Tuesday – and you’re almost off again. It’s a young man’s game and I am classed as one of the dinosaurs.”
So, if the Premier League call came, would Andosaurus rise from his relaxed lakeside perch? Apparently not.
“It’s not so much I wouldn’t want to do it – my body won’t let me. Right now, I am enjoying the Pro Tour and a few Euro events which are easy to get to. If I was in the Premier League, I just couldn’t physically manage the rest. And I am more than happy with the current schedule. People don’t understand that I genuinely don’t give a damn – I just like playing darts and having a great time.”
A true legend of the game who’s now far happier with a fishing rod in his hand than tungsten in his fingers.
—–ENDS—-
Images: PDC
