Darts star Ryan Searle has launched a scathing critique of the sport's governing body just hours before his monumental World Darts Championship semi-final against teenage sensation Luke Littler. The player known as 'Heavy Metal' faces Littler at Alexandra Palace on Friday evening, with a place in the final on the line, but has not shied away from voicing his strong opinions on recent structural changes.
Searle's 'Kick in the Teeth' Over PDC Rule Changes
In the lead-up to the biggest match of his career, Searle has been openly critical of a significant rule change introduced by the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) in early 2025. The new system grants the top 16 players in the main Order of Merit an automatic bye into the second round of European Tour events.
Searle argues this undermines the ProTour Order of Merit, a ranking he believes more accurately reflects a player's current form and consistency. For players like Searle, who sits inside the ProTour top 16 but outside the overall PDC top 16, the change means having to battle through the opening rounds, while higher-profile rivals rest.
Taking to social media to express his frustration, Searle described the shift as a "kick in the teeth" for hard-working professionals who are consistently performing well but are just outside the elite bracket. His public complaints sparked a reaction from peers, including a jovial dig from Australian star Damon Heta, who referenced a potential New Year's resolution to stop moaning. Searle fired back, urging Heta to back his point and even suggesting the Aussie was on a "blacklist" after his own omission from the Premier League lineup.
Premier League Doubts and Focus on the Oche
Despite his deep run at the Worlds, Searle has cast doubt on his chances of receiving a coveted Premier League Darts invitation. Following his quarter-final victory over Johnny Clayton, Searle admitted the Premier League is a goal, but questioned if he "fits" the profile the selectors are after.
"I've kind of said privately that the Premier League is something that I would like to do once, just to say that I've done it," Searle explained. "Whether it's this year or not... if you look at Chris Dobey last year, he kind of had a similar path to me, where in previous majors he didn't do a huge amount and then got to the Worlds and made a semi and they put him in. Not sure whether my face fits for that, but we'll see what happens."
Channeling Frustration into World Championship Challenge
Despite his grievances, Searle has vowed to redirect his focus squarely onto his darts. Facing the monumental task of defeating the world champion and phenomenon Luke Littler, Searle has stated his intention to stop complaining and instead put in more effort than ever.
His goal is clear: to break into that protected top 16 of the world rankings and earn the same privileges as his rivals. All that frustration and determination will now be channelled into his performance on the Ally Pally stage, setting the scene for a tense and dramatic semi-final clash where Searle's potent scoring power meets Littler's prodigious talent.
