James Wade has called for the PDC to postpone events like the European Darts Open after enduring extreme heat in Leverkusen. The former world champion reached the third round on 13 July but criticised organisers for failing to protect players, insisting temperatures made competition unsafe. Wade’s outspoken remarks—delivered immediately after his 6-4 victory over Maik Kuivenhoven—highlight growing concerns over player welfare in professional darts.
Why did James Wade criticise the European Darts Open?
Wade’s frustration boiled over after his hard-fought win over Kuivenhoven, a match he admitted was physically taxing due to the conditions. Speaking to *Oche180*, he argued that players should never be forced to compete in such high temperatures. *“You shouldn’t have to play in heat like that,”* he repeated, stressing that organisers must take responsibility. *“It’s not complicated,”* he added, framing the issue as a simple matter of fairness—players entertain crowds, yet are expected to endure extreme conditions without basic protections.
What solution does James Wade propose?
Wade’s answer was blunt: postpone the event. *“Postpone it. Postpone events like this,”* he said, rejecting the idea that heat-related cancellations are overly complex. He pointed out that while top players like him deliver for fans, they deserve safer environments. *“All the time dart players are doing as they’re told, nothing will happen,”* he warned, suggesting inaction could lead to further backlash. The European Darts Open, held in Leverkusen, has faced criticism before for its heat, but Wade’s remarks escalate the debate.
How does this compare to other PDC tournaments?
Wade briefly contrasted the conditions in Leverkusen with the upcoming World Matchplay in Blackpool, where the forecast is far cooler. *“The forecast is completely different,”* he noted, implying that organisers elsewhere are more attentive to weather risks. Yet he made clear that no player should have to compete in unsafe heat—regardless of location. *“I don’t think players should have to play in temperatures like that,”* he said, framing it as a fundamental issue of respect for athletes.
What’s next for James Wade?
With the World Matchplay starting next week, Wade will shift focus to Blackpool’s Winter Gardens. While the venue is known for its warmth, the current weather forecast offers relief. Wade’s comments, however, signal a broader demand for the PDC to prioritise player safety. His criticism—delivered with his signature bluntness—could pressure organisers to rethink how they handle extreme conditions in future tournaments.