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Professional darts has evolved dramatically over the past three decades. From smoky pub stages to packed arenas and global television audiences, the sport continues to grow year after year and the future of darts is fascinating to think about.
With increased prize money, international expansion, and new audiences discovering the game, it’s natural to ask what comes next.
While the foundations of darts remain rooted in tradition, discussions around new darts rules and potential format changes are becoming more common. Whether driven by broadcasters, pro darts players, or governing bodies, adjustments to structure and presentation could shape the future of professional darts.
Here at Throw For 180, we look at six realistic rule and format changes that could be introduced in the coming years, and what they might mean for the future of darts.
A Universal Shot Clock in Televised Events
One of the most frequently discussed changes in modern darts is the introduction of a universal shot clock across all televised tournaments.
Currently, some events have experimented with time limits between visits, but there is no consistent rule applied across every major competition. A standardised shot clock would require players to throw within a set time frame, creating a faster and more predictable pace of play.
From a broadcasting perspective, this would make scheduling easier and potentially increase viewer engagement. Faster matches can appeal to newer audiences who prefer quicker sports formats.
However, this idea would not be without controversy. Darts is a rhythm-based sport, and many players rely on a specific tempo to perform at their best. A universal time restriction could disrupt natural flow and add an additional layer of pressure that some feel is unnecessary.
If this is the future of darts, some players will hate it, while others, might not be affected at all.
Shorter Match Formats in Early Rounds
Another potential format change in darts tournaments involves reducing match lengths in early rounds.
Many events begin with longer formats such as best of 11 legs. A shift to shorter matches, such as best of 7 legs in opening rounds, would increase the pace of tournaments and potentially create more upsets.
From a commercial standpoint, shorter matches allow more games per session, more storylines, and greater unpredictability. For fans, this could mean more dramatic moments early in events.
On the other hand, longer formats are widely regarded as a truer test of skill. The longer the match, the more likely the better player prevails. Reducing match length may introduce more variance and increase the role of momentum and short-term form.
For this reason, many would oppose this being the future of darts, simply saying we want more, not less.
A Set Based Format for Major Finals
Some major tournaments use set-based formats, while others rely solely on legs. A possible future change could see all major finals played in sets to create consistency across flagship events.
Set play can produce dramatic momentum swings and clear turning points in matches. For television audiences, the structure of sets makes it easier to follow progress and understand key moments.
When it comes to the mental side of darts, set play vs leg play is big, so this would also make a huge difference to that side of the game.
Historically, set formats have produced some of the most memorable matches in darts history, largely because players can reset mentally between sets.
However, some fans prefer the simplicity of straight-leg formats, arguing they are easier to follow and more reflective of sustained scoring ability. Standardising finals would likely divide opinion among traditionalists and those seeking uniformity.
Would all darts matches just become the same, if this went through? We wouldn’t want the future of darts to be boring, that is for sure!
A Mixed-Gender Ranking System
The growth of women’s darts and increasing crossover into open tournaments has sparked conversations about unified ranking systems.
A mixed-gender ranking structure would mean ranking points are earned and recognised across open competitions rather than separated by tour. This could create a clearer pathway for all players and reflect the increasingly inclusive direction of the sport.
The appeal of this change lies in meritocracy. Darts is a precision sport where physical differences are less influential than skill and mental strength.
However, ranking systems are closely tied to qualification structures, prize funds, and tour organisation. Integrating systems would require significant structural adjustments and could be complex to implement fairly.
Expansion of Team Based Professional Events
Darts has traditionally been an individual sport, but team competitions have proven popular when introduced.
Many people practice darts alone and obviously, usually play alone, but could there be a percentage switch to bring more team based darts?
An expanded team based professional league could involve city-based franchises, doubles matches, and mixed singles formats. This type of structure could attract new audiences and commercial investment while creating regional rivalries.
Modern sports marketing often leans into team identities, and a franchise model could open new revenue streams and sponsorship opportunities.
That said, some purists may argue that darts thrives on individual rivalries and personal narratives. Shifting too heavily toward team formats could risk altering the sport’s identity.
The idea of team darts will appeal to many, and while it will always be an individual sport first, the future of darts having more team events in it would be no surprise, and welcomed on the whole.
Alternative Scoring Format Tournaments
For decades, 501 has been the backbone of professional darts. It is simple, recognisable, and deeply embedded in the sport’s culture.
However, there have been occasional discussions about introducing more ranking tournaments using alternative scoring formats, such as 301 double-in or even variations inspired by global formats.
Introducing different scoring systems could test players in new ways and refresh the viewing experience. It could also help darts appeal to markets where alternative formats are already popular.
The challenge lies in tradition. 501 is synonymous with professional darts, and altering its dominance would likely face resistance from players and long-time fans alike.
The Future of Darts: Balancing Tradition and Innovation
Every sport eventually faces the question of evolution. As darts continues to grow globally, organisers must balance preserving its heritage with adapting to modern audiences and creating something viable to be the future of darts.
New darts rules and format changes are not guaranteed, but the discussion itself reflects the sport’s momentum. Whether through shot clocks, structural adjustments, or expanded competitions, innovation remains a possibility.
We’re not talking about changing your darts setup or anything too drastic, just purely looking at ways the game could be advanced, or improved, over the coming years while still remaining the game we love.
The key will always be maintaining fairness, competitive integrity, and the core identity of darts while ensuring it continues to thrive in a changing sporting landscape.
The coming years may not bring radical transformation, but incremental changes are almost inevitable. As audiences grow and commercial pressures increase, the future of professional darts will likely involve careful evolution rather than revolution.
For fans and players alike, that debate is part of what makes the sport so compelling. Whatever it is, the future of darts is sure to be exciting.