Sir Chris Hoy, the six-time Olympic champion, will make an emotional appearance at the 2024-25 PDC World Darts Championship to present the prestigious Ballon d'Art trophy. Invited by Paddy Power and Prostate Cancer UK, Hoy's involvement marks not only his celebration of sport but also highlights his own battle with terminal cancer.
The World Darts Championship is renowned for its high stakes and thrilling matches, but this year, there’s added significance as Hoy steps up to award the player with the most 180s throughout the tournament. This accolade follows up on the trophy's introduction last year when Luke Humphries was the winner after scoring 73 maximums.
The initiative is part of Paddy Power's 'The BIGGER 180' campaign, which aims to raise not just excitement during the tournament but also awareness of prostate cancer. For every 180 hit, £1,000 will be donated to Prostate Cancer UK. The campaign hopes to encourage more than 180,000 men to check their risk of the disease, prompting earlier diagnosis and potentially saving lives.
This year, the stakes have been raised even higher, with the introduction of a £180,000 bonus offered for any player who hits a nine-darter—a perfect score within the game. So far, the tournament has seen two nine-dart finishes, resulting in £360,000 being distributed among the players, Prostate Cancer UK, and lucky fans selected from the audience.
Among the contenders, 17-year-old Luke Littler stands out, currently leading the race for the Ballon d'Art trophy with 64 maximums. Michael van Gerwen, one of the tournament favorites, follows not far behind with 43. While Van Gerwen feels he has the experience to carry him through, he acknowledges Littler's impressive performance throughout the tournament.
Hoy, now 48, has been open about his health struggles after being diagnosed with cancer. Last year, it was discovered he had primary cancer in his prostate, which has since metastasized to his bones. After undergoing chemotherapy, he revealed the severity of his condition, stating it was stage-four cancer. His forthright approach aims to bring attention to prostate cancer where typically men, like himself, may not recognize symptoms until it's too late.
“This isn’t about medals or records. It’s about saving lives,” Hoy emphasized to Prostate Cancer UK. He hopes his story can resonate with others and inspire them to take proactive steps toward their health. “If sharing my story gets just one person to check their risk or book a screening, then it’s all been worth it.”
With past symptoms occurring late for him, Hoy raised concerns about typical patterns of men waiting until they experience pain before seeking help. His message is clear: “Don’t wait, act now.” He believes connecting men through shared experiences at events like the World Darts Championship can spark conversations about health.
Every maximum hit significantly contributes to funding prostate cancer awareness and treatment, demonstrating the impactful merging of sports and positive charitable initiatives. With the contest set to reach its peak, fans and players alike are eagerly watching how the championship and the Ballon d’Art award will play out.
Reflecting on his diagnosis, Hoy shared, “By the time my kids are grown, I want prostate cancer to have a completely different story.” His personal connection to the cause drives his determination not just for himself, but for future generations. Hoy's participation goes beyond sporting accolades; it's about raising awareness and ensuring men do not face the same late diagnosis he did.
The World Darts Championship not only showcases the talents of elite players but also serves as a platform for advocacy against prostate cancer. With each score celebrated and each medical check encouraged, every dart thrown has the potential to change lives, raising awareness and providing hope.
With the match finals approaching, Hoy’s presentation of the Ballon d'Art signifies the high spirits of competition intertwined with the solemn but necessary conversation about men's health. This blend of sport and service makes the World Darts Championship not just a title fight but also shines the spotlight on important health issues facing men today.
Hoy’s story is one of resilience, courage, and eagerness to make changes. His belief is simple but powerful: “Together, we’re paving the way for a brighter future.” And as he prepares to present the award, the world of darts prepares to honor both the sport and the fight against cancer.