While the Premier League Darts is in Berlin, the doubling of the World Cup prize money causes a sensation. The stars of the scene react euphorically, Michael van Gerwen sees an impact on the offspring.
“I’ve been a millionaire for a long time,” said Michael van Gerwen with a laugh when asked whether the historical price increase at the Darts World Cup would make him a millionaire. The three-time world champion spoke on the sidelines of the Premier League event in Berlin exclusively with Sport1 about the pioneering decision of the PDC to double the World Cup prize money from 2026.
“Darts has become more and more popular, so it’s strange? I don’t think. But of course we are very privileged how the PDC handles things,” emphasized Van Gerwen with a view to the growing popularity of sport.
Michael van Gerwen is not surprised by the record price at the darts World Cup
The PDC recently announced that the winner of the Darts World Cup in 2026 will be received one million pounds (around 1.2 million euros) for the first time-a doubling of the previous amount. The runner -up also benefits considerably and will receive £ 400,000 in the future.
“Let’s be honest, that is a big increase,” said Nathan Aspinall at Sport1 and predicted that the World Cup prize money could increase up to four million pounds in the next ten years.
The total prize money of the prestigious tournament is already increasing to impressive five million pounds, while the field of 96 to 128 players is expanded.
Generation change through prize explosion?
In the enormous increase in prize money, “MVG” sees the main effect on the youngsters.
“I think it will change the young people, they will see the dollar signs. When I started, I couldn’t even win a penny. But now you can win real money and of course it will change things,” van Gerwen is convinced.
Rob Cross, world champion of 2018, also underlined the importance of increasing the professionalization of sport: “It is enormous to double the money at the World Cup. I think it is proof of where the game is right now.”
Record prize money? “It’s crazy”
The Englishman recalled that there were hardly any earning opportunities in his early years and only the absolute elite could live from darts. And today? “Now a lot of people earn their livelihood, it is now a profession.”
Stephen Bunting became particularly clear: “It is unbelievable to be honest. Who would have thought that five or ten years ago. It is crazy.”
“The Bullet” also emphasized the new perspectives for the youngsters, who can now realistically dream of earning his livelihood with darts.