WADE HITS OUT AFTER PREMIER LEAGUE SNUB
07/01/2026 By Aaron Nijjar
JAMES WADE admits it feels like a “gut punch” after being snubbed from the Premier League.
‘The Machine’ had a stellar campaign in 2025 reaching the final of the World Matchplay and UK Open.
But the Aldershot slinger suffered a second round defeat to Ricky Evans at the World Championship.
Wade accused darts chiefs of prioritising Ally Pally performances when deciding this year’s Premier League wildcards.
He told the Daily Star: “I’m struggling with the Premier League selection process. I feel lost, honestly.
“I mean, I reached the finals of serious events like the UK Open and the World Matchplay, which are probably only eclipsed by the World Championship.
“I thought that should be enough. I’ve been consistently good, regularly reaching the quarter-finals, semi-finals and finals.
“Unfortunately, the World Championship has been somewhat of a curse for me. The PDC seems to focus solely on the World Championship and overlook the previous 11 months.
“I don’t want to criticise the players selected for the event, but besides Luke Littler and Luke Humphries, I believe I’ve been one of the most consistent players throughout the season.
“I’m really gutted about this situation. I feel ready to compete again, but it feels like a gut punch. Nonetheless, I’m determined to get through it.”
World No11 Wade has not featured in the weekly invitational tournament 2022.
The 11-time major winner claimed the title in 2009 and has also finished runner-up twice.
Wade secured his first senior title since 2022 with victory at Players Championship 19 last season.
Image by Taylor Lanning.
