Darts star Scott Williams, known for his vibrant personality on the PDC circuit, has openly shared the immense personal and professional challenges he’s faced since earning his tour card in 2023. Battling a condition known as ‘dartitis,’ alongside significant personal and financial pressures from running his own business, Williams admits to breaking down in tears multiple times. He’s now in a desperate fight to retain his professional status, hoping a recent management change will spark a much-needed turnaround.
In the high-stakes world of professional darts, players often project an image of unwavering confidence. Yet, behind the scenes, many face immense pressure. Scott Williams, a player celebrated for his lively character and memorable moments on the PDC circuit, has recently lifted the lid on a profoundly difficult period in his career, revealing a journey fraught with emotional and professional struggles.
The Unexpected Downfall After a Promising Start
After securing his coveted PDC tour card in 2023, many expected a steady ascent for Scott Williams. However, the reality has been far from straightforward. The 36-year-old has confessed in an exclusive interview that his time on the professional tour has been a massive struggle.
Battling the Invisible Foe: Dartitis and Personal Burdens
Williams revealed the core of his struggle: a condition called ‘dartitis’ – a psychological block that causes players to lose control of their throwing action. “It was tough to start with because you don’t want to admit you have got it,” he shared. This wasn’t his only battle, as significant personal challenges compounded the issue:
- Unacknowledged Dartitis: Initially, Williams found it hard to accept or admit he was experiencing dartitis, a condition that can severely impact a dart player’s career.
- Personal Life Stress: He noted, “there was a lot going on in my personal life,” indicating external pressures that impacted his focus and mental well-being.
- Business Ventures: Williams had invested heavily in a darts shop and coaching, which, while initially successful, ended up diverting his energy. “What I did I seemed to put all my effort and time into that, which then my game went down,” he explained.
The Crushing Weight of Financial and Sporting Pressure
The decision to run a business while competing professionally added a layer of intense pressure, particularly financial. “I was looking financially after the shop with my own money, not the investors money or somebody else,” Williams stated, highlighting the personal risk involved. This created a suffocating environment, making every match feel like a make-or-break moment.
A Heartbreaking Moment: The 2026 UK Open
The severity of Williams’ struggles was starkly evident during the 2026 UK Open. In his sole match against Benjamin Pratnemer, Williams found himself in a strong position, leading 4-1. However, the mental block struck mid-game.
“All of a sudden I got so uncomfortable and I couldn’t release a dart,” he recounted. He ultimately surrendered his lead, losing 6-4 with a disappointing average of just 86.29. This experience served as a painful illustration of how dartitis and pressure can derail a player’s performance even when ahead.
Tears Behind the Triumphs: The Emotional Toll
The emotional impact of his struggles has been profound, leading Williams to tears on multiple occasions, even after winning matches. “I cried a couple of times this year. I won the couple of games and I cried,” he admitted.
He cited a match against Tyler Thorpe where he won by hitting five bullseye checkouts – an unconventional strategy born out of his inability to throw normally. “I hit five bullseye checkouts, not one way you would think I’m going for the bullseye but I did because in my head that is how it works,” he revealed. The relief, confusion, and raw emotion of these moments were overwhelming. “I went back to my manager and my wife was there; I was like I don’t know why.”
Fighting for Survival: The Tour Card Battle
Currently, Scott Williams is in a precarious position, battling to secure his PDC tour card. He sits 64th in the race, with competitors like Maik Kuivenhoven, Rob Owen, and Wesley Plaisier hot on his heels as the post-World Championship cut-off approaches at the end of the year.
In a bid for a fresh start, Williams recently parted ways with his management team. This significant change is hoped to be the catalyst for a much-needed turnaround in his form, allowing him to refocus and finish 2026 strongly, and crucially, retain his place among the darting elite.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Planet TV.
