DARTS PLAYERS have been advised to speed up their walk-ons and stop signing loads of fans’ autographs before their games.
The walk-on is a key part of every TV darts tournament but this year some stars have noticeably been taking their time before they have arrived on stage.
Darts stars have been advised to speed up their walk-ons before gamesCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
Some players – including James Wade – take a long time signing autographs and taking selfiesCredit: Getty
James Wade, 42, is one culprit who will seemingly stop for every selfie and autograph hunter while his music, “I’m Still Standing” by , is being played in the arena.
Sometimes it can stray into an act of sportsmanship, especially if the opponent is left waiting around during the supporter interaction.
And TV producers and PDC officials are normally in a stage of panic backstage when throwers walk slowly to the oche because they are up against tight schedule deadlines.
A memo was sent out to all players before the start of the in Wolverhampton.
bosses have not banned signings completely but they have encouraged everyone to hurry up to avoid delaying the show.
At the very least, they should be ready when their name is announced by the MC and looking straight at the television camera.
A PDC spokesperson said: “The walk-on is an important part of the show for all fans at the event as well as those watching on TV.
“And players have been reminded of the need to be ready to make their way to the stage once the MC announces them.
“Players have not been banned from signing autographs and we encourage players to interact with the crowd appropriately.”
Grand Slam of Darts continues on Monday evening with the likes of , , and playing.
World No1 Humphries takes on Aspinall in the game of the day.
