A Historic Shift in Darts Popularity
The US Darts Masters will relocate from the Theater at Madison Square Garden to the main arena in 2027. This historic decision comes after a successful year in 2026, in which ticket sales exceeded expectations, and organizers recognized the increasing demand for high-profile darts events in New York City. The move reflects a broader trend of expanding the reach of sports that are typically considered less mainstream in the U.S. but have a dedicated, passionate fan base.
The US Darts Masters has been a key event in the Professional Darts Corporation’s (PDC) North American calendar for several years. Held annually in New York City, the tournament traditionally takes place in the Theater at Madison Square Garden, a venue that has hosted everything from concerts to boxing. However, with rising attendance and growing media coverage, the move to the main arena is a clear indication that darts is gaining traction across the country, especially in urban centers like New York.
The main arena at Madison Square Garden, often dubbed “The Mecca of Sports and Entertainment,” boasts a seating capacity of over 20,000, compared to the 5,600-seat Theater. This expansion will allow fans to enjoy a larger, more immersive experience while watching the world’s best darts players, including global stars like Michael van Gerwen, Peter Wright, and Gerwyn Price.
Barry Hearn’s Vision for Darts in America
The decision to move the US Darts Masters to the main arena is led by Barry Hearn, the chairman of the PDC, who has been instrumental in bringing the sport into the mainstream. Hearn has a reputation for taking niche sports and transforming them into major global spectacles. His efforts have already brought darts to new audiences, particularly in the U.S., where the sport was once largely overlooked.
Hearn’s strategic plan to elevate darts in the U.S. includes attracting new sponsorships, forming partnerships with American networks, and leveraging the growing interest in international sports. By hosting the tournament in Madison Square Garden, Hearn aims to place darts in the spotlight of a city known for its vibrant entertainment scene, while drawing in new fans from diverse demographics.
“This is a giant step forward for darts in the U.S.,” said Hearn in an official statement. “New York is the perfect city to showcase our sport, and the move to the main arena will provide fans with an unforgettable experience. We’re committed to making darts a household name across North America.”
Impact on New York City’s Sports and Entertainment Scene
New York City, already home to a wide range of major sports and entertainment events, will soon add another notable fixture to its calendar with the US Darts Masters. The move to the main arena at Madison Square Garden aligns with the city’s status as a global cultural hub, offering an exciting new attraction for both locals and international visitors.
The increased visibility of darts could help introduce the sport to a broader, more diverse audience, particularly among younger fans. New York has a growing international sports community, and darts’ ability to bring together different cultures in one venue mirrors the city’s diverse demographic. The sport’s rising popularity, along with its often theatrical nature, complete with colorful personalities and enthusiastic fan engagement, could attract people who would not traditionally consider watching darts.
Moreover, the tournament’s expansion will create a boost for the local economy, particularly in the entertainment, hospitality, and tourism sectors. Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses near Madison Square Garden will likely see increased foot traffic as fans from around the world come to New York for the event.
Growing Popularity of Darts in the U.S.
The growth of darts in the U.S. reflects broader changes in the American sports landscape. Historically dominated by American football, baseball, and basketball, the U.S. sports market is beginning to diversify, with more interest in international and niche sports. Darts has benefited from this trend, largely due to the PDC World Darts Championship, which has attracted significant international media coverage.
This increasing popularity is partly driven by the sport’s high energy, rapid pace, and accessibility for fans. Darts events are often televised with thrilling commentary, close-up shots of players’ techniques, and crowd reactions, creating an atmosphere that is as much about the spectacle as the game itself. It is no surprise that fans in U.S. cities like New York, where entertainment and sports events are woven into the cultural fabric, are warming to this exciting and unique sport.
What’s Next for Darts in America?
The move to Madison Square Garden is just the beginning. The PDC’s expansion efforts in the U.S. are likely to continue, with additional events planned for Los Angeles, Chicago, and other major cities. The sport’s growing popularity is also attracting potential U.S.-based sponsors and advertisers, which is expected to bring even more visibility and funding to the sport.
If the trend continues, the United States could very well become a major hub for darts in the coming years, mirroring its success in the U.K. and Europe. Darts may not yet rival the mainstream American sports, but its trajectory in the U.S. looks increasingly promising.
Conclusion
The US Darts Masters’ move to Madison Square Garden in 2027 represents a significant milestone for both the sport of darts and the broader entertainment landscape in New York City. With its high-energy, accessible nature and growing popularity, darts is poised to become an increasingly important part of the U.S. sports scene. This move not only brings new opportunities for fans but also helps position New York as a central hub for international sports and entertainment, further cementing its status as a global cultural epicenter.
As the world of darts continues to grow in popularity, we can expect even greater developments, with more fans flocking to see the sport live and more major cities hosting international events in the years to come.
