Each December, Alexandra Palace transforms into the beating heart of darts, hosting the PDC World Darts Championship.
This festive spectacle is steeped in excitement, drama, and a party atmosphere unmatched by any other.
Fans in outlandish fancy dress, pint glasses in hand, create an electric buzz, roaring on their favourite players and setting the stage for unforgettable moments. For players, the Ally Pally crowd isn’t just a backdrop – it’s a driving force that can make or break their tournament dreams.
As the 2025 tournament looms, anticipation is sky-high. While established stars like Luke Humphries and Gary Anderson are tipped to dominate when assessing the Darts World Championship betting, the unpredictability of the championship means that anything is possible.
Last year’s event highlighted just how influential the fans can be, with the Ally Pally faithful throwing their weight behind unexpected heroes and creating a carnival-like atmosphere that resonates far beyond the venue.
Part of what makes the World Darts Championship so unique is the festive spirit fans bring to Ally Pally.
From superheroes to cartoon characters, the fancy dress on display is as much a part of the show as the action on stage. The crowd’s energy, fuelled by camaraderie (alongside a few festive drinks), creates an environment that players feed off.
It’s a winter tradition that warms the heart of London, with boisterous fans turning even the coldest nights into a carnival. You may even spot the odd celebrity watching the oche up close and personal, with Tottenham Hotspur midfielder James Maddison among some of the most notable darts fans.
This atmosphere is not lost on the players either. Many, like Peter Wright, with his flamboyant costumes and colourful personality, embrace the crowd’s energy to elevate their game.
The relationship between the players and fans is symbiotic – the players entertain, and the fans respond in kind, creating an atmosphere that makes Alexandra Palace a venue like no other.
In a sport where mental fortitude is just as important as skill, having the crowd on your side can turn the tide in critical moments.
For unseeded players or those entering as underdogs, the Ally Pally crowd offers an invaluable boost. The noise, the chants, and the energy can inspire a level of play that defies the odds. Take last year’s spirited run from Scott Williams, who became a firm fan favourite with his tenacious performances and infectious personality.
Shaggy somehow knocked Michael van Gerwen out of the competition, making it all the way to the semi-finals.
“Words can’t describe it,” admitted Williams, who averaged 96 and crashed in 12 maximums to celebrate the biggest win of his fledgling career. “Michael is the best player of our generation, so to have beaten him on this stage is just crazy.
“That wasn’t the Michael van Gerwen we’ve seen over the last three games. I could tell that he was just that little bit off tonight.
“As soon as the crowd got involved, that’s when I started playing my darts later on in the game, and I’m so happy to be through to tomorrow. I’m going to enjoy it regardless.”
This year could follow a similar script. At Alexandra Palace, the underdog is never truly alone – the crowd thrives on a Cinderella story, and their vocal backing can make every dart feel like destiny. You saw firsthand, with the number of seeded players exiting early, that nothing is given for free in the Worlds, and anything can happen on the right night.
For the players, building a bond with the crowd isn’t just about entertainment – it’s often a key to victory.
That said, being a part of that exclusive crowd is a challenge within itself. Getting tickets for the World Darts Championship is no easy feat, and those lucky enough to attend know they have a role to play.
Every chant, cheer, and wave of support can be the difference between a player crumbling under pressure or finding their rhythm.
As the 2025 tournament approaches, this dynamic could once again prove decisive when darts betting. Whether it’s the boisterous cheers for a new fan favourite or the playful jeers aimed at seasoned pros like Gerwyn Price, the crowd’s influence is undeniable.
Ultimately, the Ally Pally faithful are as much a part of the World Darts Championship as the players themselves.
Their passion, energy, and unwavering support have helped transform darts into a festive tradition adored by millions. This year, as the world’s best players take to the stage, one thing is certain – the fans will play their part in shaping the story of the 2025 championship.
