Two-time world champion Adrian Lewis is officially returning to darts after taking an indefinite hiatus from the sport.
In April 2023, ‘Jackpot’ confirmed that he would be stepping away from the oche due to the stress of the game and to care for his ill wife Sarah.
In September 2023, Lewis explained on social media: “Dear all, in particular my fans, I feel that your loyalty deserves an explanation for my absence from tournaments.
“After 20+ years I feel I need a break from the professional circuit for now. Massive thanks for the support from my fans & sponsors. Also I’d like to thank @OfficialPDC @PDPA–darts for the opportunity and last but not least my family. Cheers folks Ade.”
He has now confirmed his first foray back with the Modus Super Series. He told the competition: “Hello, I am Adrian Lewis, two-time back-to-back PDC and BDO darts champion, and I am looking forward to playing in the Modus Super Series sometime in May, so stay tuned.”
The weekly darts series had previously put Luke Littler into the limelight before his rise to stardom at Alexandra Palace.
Lewis is unable to compete in PDC events as a result of his tour card expiring at the end of 2024.
He has previously eyed a return to the PDC Tour in the future, but once he finishes competing in the Super Series, he would have to qualify after going through Q School.
That is the pathway set by the PDC, with Matchroom chief Barry Hearn already confirming that Lewis would not be given any special treatment despite his standing in the sport.
Darts supremo Hearn told The Sun: “Absolutely none. Nor can they be. It’s not about what you used to do – it’s about what you can do.
“Does he have to go through Q School? Yeah. We’d welcome him back with open arms. He’s a great lad and a great player. He has had his own personal problems.
“Which he has to come to terms with. But they are not our problems, they are his problems and it is up to him to solve them.”
Lewis has already announced plans to compete in Q School next year: “I’ve not gone to Q School this January. I’m writing that off. I’m hoping the following year.
“I want to enjoy the game again. I can’t go in half-hearted, I need to go in there 100 per cent. Full heart and soul into it. That would be the way back. Will that mean I’ll get the motivation back? I am hoping so.
“When you’ve been doing something for 20 years, it takes its toll on you. I need a break from it. There’s no reason why I cannot go and get my Tour card back.”
