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LONDON — Darts enthusiasts are known for bringing a lively spirit to competitions, but recent incidents have led to concerns about excessive behavior among the crowd.
While fans are encouraged to don costumes and sing along, there has been a clear warning issued against disruptive actions such as whistling and booing when players, including 18-year-old world champion Luke Littler, are preparing to throw.
The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) released this warning following disturbances that occurred during Thursday’s Premier League event in Glasgow. Players were met with whistling as they took to their throws, prompting officials to remind attendees that such behavior could result in ejection from the venue if it continues.
After his victory over Luke Humphries at the Hydro in Glasgow, Littler remarked on the disruptive atmosphere, calling it “pretty bad.” Similarly, Welsh player Gerwyn Price faced off against a heckler during his semifinal against Humphries, which heightened the tension in the arena. Referee Kirk Bevin intervened, urging fans to cease the disruptive actions, yet this only seemed to amplify the noise.
The PDC emphasized that every player aims to deliver their best performance, creating an entertaining experience for both in-person and remote viewers. They reiterated the terms and conditions of event entry, stating that spectators who engage in inappropriate behavior risk being removed from the premises.
The tournament organizers pledged to collaborate closely with Premier League venues to implement proactive measures against disruptive conduct. “The overwhelming majority of our dedicated fans who regularly attend our sold-out events disapprove of such behavior, and we will continue to foster an encouraging environment that allows all players to perform at their best in every match,” the PDC affirmed.
The Premier League’s next event is scheduled to take place on February 20 in Dublin.