Ricky Evans Opens Up on Arthritis Battle and the Support Fueling His Darts Career

Ricky Evans, the 35-year-old Kettering thrower known affectionately as "Rapid Ricky," has long been one of the most recognizable and beloved characters on the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) circuit. But behind his trademark rapid-fire throws and highly entertaining walk-ons, Evans is fighting a quiet, daily battle with severe arthritis. The condition, which affects his arms, legs, and feet, has cast a shadow over his recent campaigns, turning the already grueling professional tour into a painful physical endurance test.[1][2][5]

In recent interviews with darts media, Evans opened up about the physical toll the condition takes on his body, revealing that chronic pain has made competing at the highest level increasingly difficult. The World No. 48 admitted that the relentless nature of the ProTour, combined with his physical ailments, often leaves him feeling downbeat after tough losses. "I go to these ProTours and I get downbeat when I lose," he confessed, noting the profound frustration of averaging 97 in a match only to be sent home early.[1][2]

The hidden reality of professional darts is that it demands immense physical resilience. While it may lack the cardiovascular strain of other sports, the repetitive motion of throwing, combined with long hours standing on stage and a punishing international travel schedule, exacerbates joint conditions. Evans is far from the only player suffering in silence; former World Champion Michael Smith recently revealed his own severe arthritis in his throwing hand, and 16-time champion Phil Taylor has spoken openly about the "nightmare" of hip arthritis that plagues him even in retirement.[3][4]

For Evans, simply maintaining his balance and executing his signature fast throw requires pushing through significant discomfort on a weekly basis. However, rather than walking away from the oche, he has found a renewed sense of purpose and stability through his personal support system. He credits his girlfriend of 15 months, Sharne, with keeping his career alive and helping him navigate the darkest days of his diagnosis.[1][2]

Evans shared that she has taken an active role in managing his health—researching treatments, booking medical appointments, and providing the emotional anchor he needs after grueling tournament days. "She's trying to combat that. She's giving me advice, getting me appointments and getting me checked out," Evans explained, becoming visibly emotional when discussing her impact. He emphasized that she does this purely out of care, adding, "She doesn't have to. I think she just wants the best for me and, obviously, vice versa."[1][2]

This proactive medical management has allowed Evans to stay competitive in a field where physical decline often spells the end of a career. The emotional weight of this support is especially profound given the personal tragedies Evans has endured recently. In March 2025, he suffered the sudden and heartbreaking loss of his sister, Elisha. Navigating that profound grief while simultaneously dealing with a painful, chronic physical condition could have easily derailed his career.[2]

Instead, the backing of his partner and his parents has provided a foundation that allows him to keep stepping up to the board. Evans channels this emotional backing directly into his game, using it as fuel to chase his elusive first major television title. He expressed a deep desire to win not just for himself, but to repay the faith of those who have stood by him, acknowledging that the support at home helps him reset after bad days and reminds him that there is always another tournament tomorrow.[1][2]

Despite the physical limitations and the emotional hurdles, Evans remains fiercely competitive and absolutely refuses to let arthritis dictate his retirement. Currently competing in the Players Championship in Leicester, he emphasized that his love for the sport remains undiminished. He still watches as much darts as he can, from the PDC to the Modus Super Series, proving that his passion for the game extends far beyond his own matches.[2]

Addressing fears about potentially losing his Tour Card—a constant pressure for players hovering around the top 64 in the world rankings—Evans was defiant. He stated that he would never voluntarily walk away from the sport he loves. "I'm not going to throw it in or give it up any time soon," he insisted, adding with characteristic humor and grit, "You'll have to drag me off stage if I lose my tour card."[1]

By speaking so openly about his arthritis and emotional struggles, Evans is shedding vital light on the hidden physical challenges many darts professionals face. His transparency serves as an inspiration to other players dealing with chronic conditions, proving that with the right medical management and a strong emotional support system, it is possible to continue competing at an elite level. As he continues his battle on the ProTour, Evans stands as a testament to resilience in a sport that demands unwavering precision under pressure.[1][3]