Simon Whitlock is one of the most popular men ever to play the game.
His distinctive hair and iconic beard make the Aussie instantly recognisable, and he has a legion of fans around the world.
Whitlock lifted the European Championship in 2012 and the World Cup of Darts a decade later in addition to a host of other titles on the floor.
The 55-year-old, however, has struggled for form in recent years.
He has earned just over £10k in ranking money in 2024 and has plummeted to 51 in the world rankings.
In an Instagram post by PDC Europe, the two-time major winner offered an explanation for his decline.
‘The Wizard’ lacking magic on the outer ring
Whitlock and World Cup partner Damon Heta were asked who is most likely to score brilliantly but lose due to missed doubles.
The Australian duo unanimously agreed Whitlock was the most likely of the two, with ‘The Wizard’ adding, “It happens to me all the time.”
Whitlock is renowned for his power scoring and holds the record for most 180s hit in a match at the Grand Slam of Darts, firing in 20 maximums against Michael van Gerwen in 2020.
The recent Players Championship events encapsulate his struggles, however.
He has failed to win a game over the last three days and missed a staggering ten match darts on Wednesday against Jurjen van der Velde.
Farewell tour for Simon Whitlock
Whitlock’s world ranking has steadily declined since 2018.
Six years ago he ended the year ranked number eight, 43 places higher than his current position.
He must remain in the top 64 at the conclusion of the 2025 World Championship if he’s to retain his Tour Card.
As it stands, he is nowhere near qualifying for any of the majors at the back end of the year and is set to miss out on the World Championship for the first time since 2004.
Despite this, he is provisionally world number 56 after the showpiece event so will cling on to his professional status.
Barring heroics from the legend, 2025 may be the final time we see Whitlock in the PDC after an incredible career.
If that is to be the case, expect to see ‘The Wizard’ on the World Seniors circuit very soon after.