Former professional darter and TV analyst Wayne Mardle has taken a resolute stance against darts being included in the Olympic Games, stating it "should not be in the Olympics." In an interview on JOE, Mardle argued that a gold medal would not represent the pinnacle for a darts player, contrasting with the traditional Olympic ethos where elite sport is about unique physical and athletic performance. "Olympians back in the day were born different," he said, adding, "I don't like half the sports that are in it." Mardle specifically referenced disciplines like pistol shooting, rifling, and archery, dismissing comparisons that might justify darts' inclusion: "If that's the argument then yes. Just no, not for me."
Mardle's view stands in stark contrast to that of world-class star Luke Humphries, who sees a future for darts at the Olympics. Humphries believes the sport's scale and popularity justify a place, noting, "With some of the sports that are Olympic sports, if darts ain't bigger than breakdancing then that is crazy." He even views an Olympic crown as a missing piece in his trophy cabinet, having won virtually every major title, saying, "Without winning the gold medal that would be the next one to win wouldn't it."
Meanwhile, Michael van Gerwen offers a different perspective, regarding darts primarily as a blend of sport and entertainment. He stated matter-of-factly, "I think it is a mix between sport and entertainment," and added, "Whatever people say about it I don't care anyway." The debate continues as darts enjoys sold-out arenas, rising viewing figures, and growing global popularity, fueling calls for Olympic inclusion.
