"Does Hard Work Really Pay Off? Darts Star Takes a Subtle Jab After Premier League Snub"

Table of Contents

• James Wade's Reaction to Missing Out
• Confirmed Competitors
• Wade's Thoughts on Stephen Bunting

JAMES WADE has expressed his frustration after failing to secure a spot in this year’s Premier League Darts lineup.

The world No. 11 was eager to participate in the £1.3 million eight-man tournament.

Wade, 42, has CRITICIZED the decision to exclude him from the competition.

In a subtly pointed remark shared on X , the Aldershot player stated: “Hard work pays off… really?”

“I’m disappointed, but I take pride in the effort I put in this year pursuing one goal – returning to the Premier League.”

“Missing out is painful, but it’s part of the journey. I trusted my performances during critical moments, achieving two major finals and two major quarter-finals, and I’ll continue to support that process.”

“Now it’s back to work. I’ll be ready in 2026.”

He suffered his fourth consecutive second-round exit from the World Darts Championship after losing to Ricky Evans last month.

Luke Littler, Luke Humphries, Gian van Veen, Michael van Gerwen, Josh Rock, Jonny Clayton, Gerwyn Price, and Stephen Bunting have qualified for the Premier League.

This outcome means that Nathan Aspinall, Ryan Searle, and Danny Noppert also join Wade in missing out.

Regarding the tournament, he added: “I’m a bit surprised by Stephen Bunting’s selection. He had a decent year, but not as impressive as some others, in my opinion.”

“He might consider himself somewhat fortunate. He played well, but the results didn’t favor him, especially in the first eight weeks.”

“We know the Premier League is challenging. You can't dispute their abilities and potential.”

“But he is the one who will breathe a huge sigh of relief.”

Eze Chidiebere Paul

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