Popular ex-world champion set for unexpected darts return after indefinite hiatus

Two-time world champion Adrian Lewis is heading back to the oche after taking a hiatus from the sport.

In April 2023, ‘Jackpot’ shared that he needed to step back from darts due to stress and to care for his ill wife.

3

Lewis addressed his fans on social media and said: “Dear all, in particular my fans, I feel that your loyalty deserves an explanation for my absence from tournaments.

“After 20+ years, I feel I need a break from the professional circuit for now. Massive thanks for the support from my fans and sponsors.

“Also, I’d like to thank the Professional Darts Corporation and the Professional Darts Players Association for the opportunity and last but not least, my family. Cheers folks, Ade.”

Lewis’s career reached monumental heights in 2011 when he claimed his first PDC World Championship, triumphing over Gary Anderson in the final.

He defended his title the following year, etching his name in darts history as the youngest player to achieve back-to-back world titles.

Beyond his World Championship victories, Lewis has also tasted glory with a European Championship win in 2013 and a UK Open title in 2014.

He is a four-time winner of the PDC World Cup of Darts, representing England alongside his mentor, Phil Taylor.

Now he has confirmed his return at the Modus Super Series.

He told the competition: “Hello, I am Adrian Lewis, two-time back-to-back PDC and BDO darts champion, and I am looking forward to playing in the Modus Super Series some time in May, so stay tuned.”

The weekly darts series had previously put Luke Littler into the limelight before his rise to stardom at Alexandra Palace.

3

Lewis finds himself unable to compete in PDC events due to his tour card expiring at the end of 2024.

He has previously expressed hope for a return to the PDC Tour in the future, but after the Super Series, he would need to qualify through Q School.

This pathway is set forth by the PDC, with Matchroom chief Barry Hearn already making it clear that Lewis won’t receive any special treatments despite his standing in the sport.

Hearn told The Sun: “Absolutely none. Nor can they be. It’s not about what you used to do – it’s about what you can do.

“Does he have to go through Q School? Yeah. We’d welcome him back with open arms.

“He’s a great lad and a great player. He has had his own personal problems.

“Which he has to come to terms with. But they are not our problems; they are his problems, and it is up to him to solve them.”

Lewis has already announced plans to compete in Q School next year: “I’ve not gone to Q School this January. I’m writing that off. I’m hoping for the following year.

“I want to enjoy the game again. I can’t go in half-hearted; I need to go in there 100 percent. Full heart and soul into it. That would be the way back. Will that mean I’ll get the motivation back? I am hoping so.

“When you’ve been doing something for 20 years, it takes its toll on you. I need a break from it. There’s no reason why I cannot go and get my Tour card back.”

When asked about the possibility of contending for a third world title upon his return, Lewis replied: “Definitely. If I am going back, it will be 100 percent focused on the third world title.

“I have the experience and the age. All that’s missing is the hunger. Once that is back, there is no reason why I cannot go on.”

Lewis’ darts career, while decorated with titles, has also been marked by several controversial incidents.

His debut World Championship in 2006 was marred by controversy when he left the stage mid-match against Peter Manley, citing disruptions to his throw.

In 2008, a confrontation with Kevin Painter at the Holland Masters led to a six-month ban, a four-month suspension, and a £400 fine.

During the 2009 World Grand Prix, he had a heated exchange with Anderson over encroachment, although Lewis emerged victorious.

At the 2012 World Championship semi-final, both Lewis and James Wade stepped away from the stage due to a draught, leading to a lengthy delay and audience heckling, despite Lewis’s win.

More recently, in 2018, he faced suspension by the PDC following an incident with Jose Justicia at a UK Open Qualifier. Lewis later apologised, receiving a £3,000 fine and a three-month suspended ban.

3

The Premier League 2025 darts tournament is currently in full swing, with night two taking place on Thursday, February 13.

It is being held at the OVO Arena in Glasgow, with the action anticipated to get going at 7:15 pm.

talkSPORT will have live commentary of the action over on the talkSPORT Darts YouTube channel.