Callan Rydz, a dynamic force in professional darts, is rapidly ascending the ranks, marked by his explosive playing style and impressive achievements. Born in Newcastle, England, in 1998, Rydz, nicknamed “The Riot,” embodies his moniker with his passionate on-stage presence and unwavering display of emotions. He currently holds the 43rd spot in the PDC Order of Merit, a testament to his growing prominence in the sport. Rydz shares a familial connection with fellow darts professional Chris Dobey, both hailing from the town of Bedlington. Interestingly, Rydz’s path to professional darts was paved by an unfortunate incident. A former BMX rider with a penchant for daredevil stunts, a broken foot sustained during lockdown curtailed his biking career and propelled him towards the world of darts. This seemingly accidental shift in focus has proven fortuitous, with Rydz quickly establishing himself as a rising star.
Rydz’s professional darts career officially commenced in 2019 when he secured his PDC Tour Card by dominating the Challenge Tour Order of Merit. This marked the beginning of a rapid ascent, punctuated by several remarkable milestones. Among his achievements, the quarter-final run in the 2022 World Darts Championship stands out, a performance that saw him narrowly lose to eventual champion Peter Wright in a gripping 5-4 match. This deep run in the prestigious tournament solidified his position as a serious contender. Further cementing his credentials, Rydz secured his first PDC ProTour title in February 2021, followed by a second Players Championship victory in October of the same year. His prowess also extended to the World Matchplay, where he defeated established players like Glen Durrant and Rob Cross en route to another quarter-final appearance. Recently, at the 2025 World Darts Championship, Rydz etched his name in the record books by achieving a remarkable 107.06 average against Romeo Grbavac, surpassing the previous record held by Luke Littler.
Rydz’s aggressive, high-scoring style of play, coupled with his natural showmanship, has quickly garnered him a devoted following. He’s known for his rapid-fire throwing rhythm and his ability to maintain composure under pressure, traits crucial for success in the high-stakes world of professional darts. His performances are often punctuated by moments of intense focus interspersed with bursts of celebratory energy, creating an engaging spectacle for fans. This combination of skill and personality makes him a captivating figure, attracting both seasoned darts enthusiasts and newcomers to the sport.
The financial rewards of Rydz’s burgeoning career are also becoming increasingly apparent. In 2024 alone, he amassed £142,000 in ranking money, contributing to a total career prize money of £489,400. His lucrative run in the 2022 World Championship, culminating in the quarter-finals, netted him £50,000. Furthermore, a sponsorship deal with major darts equipment manufacturer Unicorn supplements his earnings, further solidifying his financial stability within the sport.
Looking ahead, Rydz’s trajectory suggests a promising future. His consistent performances, coupled with his record-breaking feats, indicate a player on the cusp of even greater achievements. As he gains experience and refines his skills, he is poised to challenge the established elite of the darts world. His drive to improve, combined with his natural talent, positions him as a potential future world champion.
In summary, Callan Rydz is a thrilling embodiment of the modern darts player: skilled, charismatic, and fiercely competitive. His journey from BMX enthusiast to darts sensation is a testament to his adaptability and resilience. His captivating playing style, coupled with his impressive achievements, has cemented his place among the sport’s brightest prospects. As he continues to hone his craft and push boundaries, Callan Rydz is undoubtedly a name to watch in the world of professional darts.
