How Adam Lipscombe's PDC Tour Card Changed His Life Forever

Portsmouth darts player Adam Lipscombe has described his first experience on the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) tour as life-changing. The 32-year-old, who secured his tour card for the first time in January, recently faced off against two-time world champion Gary Anderson in the finals of the Players Championship in Germany.

"I can't get my head around it all to be honest, it's turned my life around," Lipscombe shared with BBC Sport, reflecting on his rapid rise in the sport. Just a few months into his PDC journey, Lipscombe has already participated in eight events, showcasing his growing prowess on the professional circuit.

The Road to the PDC Tour

Securing a spot on the PDC tour is no easy feat. With over 800 players vying for only 29 tour cards, the competition is fierce. Lipscombe earned his card at the annual Q School, an event where players compete for a chance to win a two-year tour card. However, his journey wasn’t without its challenges. After losing one of his early matches, Lipscombe initially left the event, feeling defeated.

"I just said to my dad let's go, I'd had enough," Lipscombe recalled. "I was thinking I'll go again next year, but I got to my home, parked up and my phone started ringing with someone saying I had to come back because there had been a pull out."

Returning to the competition, Lipscombe seized the opportunity and secured his tour card, a moment he describes as life-altering. "It has just absolutely turned my life upside down and since then it has been mad," he said.

A Stellar Run at the Players Championship

Lipscombe’s recent performance at the Players Championship in Germany further cemented his status as a rising star in the darts world. He kicked off the tournament with a 6-3 victory over Michael Flynn, followed by another 6-3 win against Andy Baetens in the last 64. In the next round, he stunned world number seven Damon Heta before delivering a convincing 6-1 triumph over the Czech Republic’s Karel Sedlacek to secure a spot in the quarter-finals.

Continuing his impressive run, Lipscombe defeated William O'Connor and booked his place in the final with a 7-4 victory over world number 26 Dirk van Duijvenbode. Reflecting on his performance, Lipscombe said, "It was just one of those days, I felt really good."

"After the semi-final win I came off afterwards and couldn't believe it, they told me I was facing Gary in the final in 10 minutes time, it was quite overwhelming," he admitted.

Facing a Legend

In the final, Lipscombe went head-to-head with the legendary Gary Anderson, who ultimately claimed his 30th Players Championship title with an 8-3 victory. Despite the loss, Lipscombe remained positive, especially after receiving encouraging words from Anderson.

"Gary had really nice words to say after our game too and I really appreciated that. He didn't have to do that so it meant a lot," Lipscombe shared. "It's quite nice hearing it from Gary who's a really established player, I'm just a newbie really."

Lipscombe’s journey from a struggling amateur to a PDC tour cardholder and Players Championship finalist is a testament to his resilience and dedication. As he continues to make his mark on the professional darts circuit, one thing is clear: Adam Lipscombe’s life has truly been turned around.