"Former Masters Champion, 36, Reveals He’s ‘Falling Out of Love’ with Darts, Calls Out ‘Selfish’ Tour Players"
Published on November 21, 2025 at 02:49 PM
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Table of Contents
- Cullen's Declining Passion for Darts
- Recent Titles
- Falling Out of Love with Darts
- Hunger for Success
- Mindset and Recent Achievements
- Selfishness in the Sport
JOE CULLEN admits that his enthusiasm for darts has waned, and he worries this could affect his chances of regaining his top form.
The world No. 32 triumphed at the Masters in 2022 and has secured two additional titles this year.
Joe Cullen has acknowledged that his enjoyment of darts has diminished since the beginning of his careerCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
The world No. 32 is competing in the Players Championship Finals todayCredit: PA
However, he has found himself drifting away from the sport since qualifying for the 2008 UK Open.
As he prepares to face Peter Wright in the evening session of the Players Championship Finals, he admits that his dwindling motivation does not bode well for his pursuit of trophies.
Cullen, speaking to Darts News , said: “I don’t enjoy it as much as I used to. I used to look forward to tournaments.
“Now, I mainly look forward to spending time with my friends. That’s not ideal if you want to reach the top.
“There are players with less talent than I have, yet they possess a hundred times more determination. You can sense that during matches. That’s when I struggle.
“[My determination] isn’t gone. It’s just more subdued. During the World Championship match against Wessel [Nijman], I suddenly felt it again.
“But you can’t force that every match, especially not in some random floor event in Leicester.
“I need to find that balance. I used to excel in floor events and struggle on TV; then that switched. Now I need to regain both aspects.”
Cullen recently shared that he has chosen to simplify his approach at the oche.
This mindset has helped him secure two Players Championship events this year.
However, at 36, he has criticized his competitors on the tour for being self-serving.
Yet, he quickly acknowledged that such a ruthless mentality is necessary to succeed in the sport.
Cullen added: “We’re all selfish in this sport. I want my friends to succeed, but ultimately, I think about myself — and so do they.”
FAQs
Why has Joe Cullen's passion for darts decreased?
Joe Cullen has admitted that he doesn't enjoy darts as much as he did at the beginning of his career. He primarily looks forward to spending time with friends rather than the excitement of tournaments, which he believes is detrimental to his performance.
What recent successes has Joe Cullen achieved?
Cullen won the Masters in 2022 and has claimed two additional titles this year, showcasing his ability to perform despite his struggles with motivation.
How does Joe Cullen feel about competition in darts?
Cullen recognizes that while he wants his friends to succeed, he ultimately prioritizes his own success. He believes a certain level of selfishness is necessary to thrive in the competitive world of darts.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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