Simon Whitlock failed to qualify for the World Darts Championship (Image: Getty)
Former finalist Simon Whitlock has officially lost his Tour Card. The Australian’s fate was confirmed after Wesley Plaisier’s 3-2 win over Ryusei Azemoto on Monday (December 16) at Alexandra Palace.
While the first round win has played a part in Whitlock’s loss, his poor form and inability to qualify for this year’s event is a major factor. Whitlock had failed to qualify for five of the PDC’s ranked televised events, meaning his only shot at the Worlds was through a Tour Card Holder Qualifier.
However, he was beaten at the first hurdle by Germany’s Paul Krohne, meaning he would miss the for the first time since 2009. And after Plaisier beat Azemoto, it was confirmed that the Australian would lose his Tour Card in another blow.
For darts players who lose their Tour Card, the only way to regain them would be to go to qualifying school, also known as Q-School. And despite his mature age, Whitlock is determined to win back his merits in any way he can.
Speaking to , the 55-year-old said: “I will go to Q-School, I’ll try and get my card back. If not, then I’ve got other options. Seniors Tour, Modus [Super Series] and other things.
“It has opened a lot of doors for me and I’m excited to try new things and that hunger back to win in different events now. So it’s actually a really good thing for me.”
Whitlock is determined to win his Tour Card back (Image: Getty)
Whitlock is an Australian cult hero, and is famed on the oche for his unique hairstyles and beard. His failure to qualify for the World Championship was the first time in 15 years that he will not be at the Ally Pally.
His last big shot at the coveted title was in 2008, where he came runner-up to the number one seed Mark Webster in a tight 7-5 final. He became the first Aussie to reach the final since Tony David won the tournament back in 2002.
However, Whitlock’s absence from the Worlds has not deterred him, as the Australian has said he is looking ahead to “new things” in his life. He added: “I’ve always wanted to play in, and strive for the World Championships. But I’m not there and I’m looking forward to new things in my life.”