World Matchplay Darts 2025: James Wade Blasts Sky Sports and Media Bias in Fiery Rant

James Wade booked his place in the Betfred World Matchplay semi-finals for the tenth time in his career, seeing off Dutch rising star Gian van Veen 16-13.

The Machine’s continued presence in the latter stages of big tournaments is a testament to his longevity at the highest level, but it was his post-match comments that sparked the bigger talking point.

Sky Sports Snub Ignites the Fire

Wade launched a passionate criticism of Sky Sports, claiming he wasn’t featured in their pre-event media coverage, a perceived snub he said gave him extra motivation.

“I probably played some of the better darts out of all the darts players and the whole sky buildup for tonight didn't show me once,” Wade said.

“It’s quite a proud moment of mine going up there afterwards and following it through because I’ve probably averaged better consistently than most players in it.”

“And I didn’t get one advertisement, so that made me a little bit more hungry.”

“One of the Best to Ever Walk the Planet”

The 41-year-old didn’t hold back when discussing how he feels underappreciated by both fans and the media, and he believes his record proves why he belongs among the greats.

“I’m probably just one of the best darts players that’s ever walked the planet.”“All I can say is for 20 years, who else has done what I’ve done?”

A Link Between Eras

Wade, who turned pro in the early 2000s, reminded fans of his unique place in the sport’s timeline, playing legends of the past and helping bridge the gap to today’s stars.

“Everyone forgets, I’ve played John Lowe, Cliff Lazarenko, all the boys you know, from the start right to where we are now. I’m really grateful and lucky to have played my part and contributed to get darts where it is now.”

On Littler and Legacy

No conversation in darts is complete these days without mentioning Luke Littler. 

Wade gave the teenager credit for his impact, but stressed that the foundations were laid long before Littler burst onto the scene.

“I’ve played the names that put this game where it is, and you can wash it as many times as you want. Luke Littler has been amazing, and taken over, but without the players before him it’s nothing.”

“When Darts Was Darts”

Asked to reflect on his favourite era, Wade suggested the soul of the game has changed with the rise of social media and hype-driven narratives.

“I would say before all the nonsense that’s accompanied darts within social media and the present stuff. My favourite moments were like from 04 to 08 when darts was darts.”

“But without all the press and fluffiness towards certain players we wouldn’t have got to a one-million-pound world champion.”

Media Pick and Choose

Wade doubled down on his frustrations with how the media landscape influences which players get attention, claiming the focus isn’t always on merit or performance.

“Darts isn't about who's playing darts anymore. Darts is about who the press has got hold of and want to publicise. That's it, that's all,” he told SportsBoom.co.uk.

“It doesn't always go down to facts and figures of who's playing great and who's doing this and who's doing that. It goes on who the press and the media have got a hold of and want to publicise.”

“But without that side of the coin, darts wouldn't be where it is now without Luke Littler.”

“But yes, I think there's a lot of players that perhaps get overseen and that's not in a bitter or a jealous way. It really isn't. It's just how it is. It's factual,” Wade concluded.