Voice of Darts Says World Championship is ‘Out of This World
The voice of Darts: Russ Bray on the Evolution of the Sport
For nearly three decades, Russ Bray’s gravelly voice has been synonymous with the electrifying world of darts. His iconic cry of “180!” has become a soundtrack to countless thrilling matches, earning him the title of “voice of darts.”
Bray, who traded his role as a road traffic officer with Essex Police for a life in sport, recently reflected on the transformation of darts ahead of the 2025 PDC World Championship at London’s Alexandra Palace.
Speaking to BBC Radio 4’s Today program, Bray noted the sport’s shift towards professionalism. “It’s a lot more professional now,” he said. While acknowledging the fading “pub element” of the game, Bray emphasized the enduring party atmosphere at Ally Pally, describing it as “just out of this world.”
Gone are the days of darts players enjoying a pint or cigarette during matches, bray observed. “You used to see it in them days,” he recalled,reminiscing about legendary players like Eric Bristow and Jocky Wilson.
Today, a new generation of players, like 17-year-old world number four luke Littler, are entering the sport through academies rather than pubs. “the kid’s 17, he’s not allowed to drink anyway, and smoking you’re not allowed to do inside in any case,” Bray pointed out.
This shift towards professionalism has attracted more money and sponsorships,turning darts into a lucrative career path. “Who would’ve thought you’d be a millionaire playing a game of darts? That’s how far the sport has come,” Bray remarked.
Despite the changes, Ally Pally remains a haven for darts fans, promising a unique and unforgettable experience.”You’ve got 5,000 people dressed up in various types of costumes, you’ve got power rangers, you’ve got people dressed up as Jesus, you’ve just got everything there,” Bray described.
“It’s such an exciting place to be, the noise and the buzz is just out of this world,” he added, highlighting the enduring appeal of the World Darts Championship.the 2025 PDC World Championship kicks off on Saturday, promising another thrilling chapter in the evolution of this beloved sport.
NewsDirect3 Interview: Russ Bray on the Evolution of Darts
NewsDirect3: Russ, congratulations on almost three decades as the voice of darts. How have you seen the sport change over the years?
Russ Bray: It’s a lot more professional now. While you don’t see the pub element as much anymore – the days of players enjoying a pint or cigarette during matches – darts has become a serious sport.
NewsDirect3: You mentioned the professionalization of the sport.Has this changed the way players approach the game?
Russ Bray: Absolutely. A new generation of players, like Luke Littler, are coming through academies rather than pubs. It’s a different pathway. They’re dedicated athletes,focused on their training and performance.
NewsDirect3: And this professionalism has brought big rewards for players, hasn’t it?
Russ Bray: Who woudl have thought you’d be a millionaire playing darts? It’s come a long way, attracting more money and sponsorships. It’s a lucrative career path now.
NewsDirect3: Despite these changes, Alexandra Palace remains a special venue for darts. What makes it so unique?
Russ bray: Ally Pally has a party atmosphere like no other. You’ve got 5,000 people dressed in all sorts of costumes, it’s incredible. The noise and buzz is just out of this world, making it an unforgettable experience. The World Darts Championship at Ally Pally remains a highlight for any darts fan.
NewsDirect3: Russ, thank you for sharing your insights into the evolution of darts. We look forward to another exciting World Championship at Ally Pally.