Paxton calls for PDC to let lower-ranked stars earn money elsewhere

ADAM PAXTON believes players outside the world’s top 64 should be allowed to compete in other events away from the PDC to boost their earnings.

The world No98 has called for the PDC to loosen its rules and give oche stars greater freedom to play in amateur competitions such as the Modus Super Series.

Paxton, 26, reckons the current system leaves his lower-ranked rivals struggling financially while still demanding they treat darts as a full-time profession.

First-round winners on the ProTour currently receive £1,250 while players who lose their opening match take home NOTHING.

Paxton says players further down the rankings need more opportunities to earn cash elsewhere.

He told Oche180: "I think there's got to be something whether it's allowing us to play in other tournaments and it not be so monopolised.

"It goes back to that old thing should we be paid? I think we should be. Does a first round winner need that extra £250?

"It's [prize money] very top heavy for one reason. It's great for PR it's great to say the winner's won XYZ. It's not great for the people who don't qualify or further down the rankings.

"I watched the Matchroom documentary on Netflix and they say darts is the biggest money maker so why can't it [happen]?

"It [Pro Tours] went from the weekend to midweek to force you to become a professional darts player as opposed to working alongside playing darts.

"They're like, 'well we're not paying you though'. So we're not paying you to be a professional darts player and for it to be your job but you're going to have to give up your job or at least part of it to be a darts player.

"It doesn't quite work I don't think."

Five-time world champion Raymond van Barneveld was granted an exemption by the PDC last year to compete on the World Seniors Tour.

The Dutchman received a wildcard to enter the Champion of Champions tournament, where he was eliminated by Ross Montgomery in the semi-finals.

Words: Aaron Nijjar

Image: Taylor Lanning