Gary Anderson will forever be mentioned in conversations about the all-time darts greats. A two-time PDC World Champion, multiple major winner, and a man who helped define an era, The Flying Scotsman isn’t just still competing - he’s still winning.
But with the glittering years behind him and the twilight of his career on the horizon, how does he really feel about still mixing it with the elite? Gary recently spoke to Phill Barrs of Online Darts to share his thoughts on the present - and the future:
"There are days I’ll turn up and feel like I can play 24/7. Then others when it seems like I’ve not thrown for six months. But I have nothing to lose now - I just get up there and enjoy myself."
Anderson no longer plays for ranking or reputation and it shows in his relaxed, yet still dangerous, presence on the oche. When it comes to the Premier League however- once a stage he graced with flair and dominance - Anderson is clear in his feelings;
"I’d sooner throw a party than play on it. The PDC don’t need to apologise for not having me. Sixteen weeks is a long shift and the travelling is too much. You leave your house on the Wednesday, play on the Thursday, then possibly off to a Euro Tour the next morning. Often, it means you don’t get back home until the Monday or Tuesday - and you’re almost off again. It’s a young man’s game…”
SIGN UP FOR A DARTS WORLD MEMBERSHIP TODAY!
So, if the Premier League call came, would Ando rise from his relaxed lakeside perch? Apparently not.
"It’s not so much that I wouldn't want to do it - my body won’t let me. If I was in the Premier League, I just couldn’t physically manage the rest.
Watch the full interview with Gary at the Online Darts YouTube Channel
Even today very few in the world can live with Anderson, now 54, when he finds his rhythm. Whether it's sheer scoring power or that trademark effortless throw, Anderson on song is still a sight to behold.
But this true legend of the game is now far happier with a fishing rod in his hand than tungsten in his fingers. He sums it up casually but honesty:
“Right now, I am enjoying the Pro Tour and a few Euro events which are easy to get to...
Well, when I am not busy at the lakes, I squeeze in a few tournaments in between."
For the full stories and more in depth coverage of everything darts, together with the latest issues of their legendary publications, head on over to dartsworld.com