Brief Introduction of Simon Whitlock
Simon Whitlock, famously known as “The Wizard,” is an Australian professional darts player who has been a prominent figure in the sport for over two decades. Renowned for his prolific scoring, exceptional checkout ability, and charismatic stage presence, Whitlock has captivated fans worldwide with his distinctive long hair and beard. He has the distinction of reaching the World Championship final in both the British Darts Organisation (BDO) and the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC). A trailblazer for darts in the Southern Hemisphere, he secured his first major PDC title at the 2012 European Championship and, alongside compatriot Damon Heta, led Australia to its first-ever World Cup of Darts victory in 2022. His longevity and consistent high-level performance have solidified his status as one of Australia’s greatest-ever darts players.
Simon Whitlock Overview
| Full Name | Simon Whitlock |
| Date of Birth | March 3, 1969 |
| Age(as of 2025) | 56 |
| Birthplace | Cessnock, New South Wales, Australia |
| Profession | Professional Darts Player |
| Husband/Wife | Formerly married twice. |
| Family | Three sons: Nicholas, Mason, and Locky. |
| Relationship/Affairs(GF/BF) | Not publicly available. |
| Net Worth | Estimated to be around £1.5 million to $2.5 million. |
Early Life and Education of Simon Whitlock
Simon Whitlock was born on March 3, 1969, in Cessnock, a city in the Hunter Region of New South Wales, Australia. His parents, who were originally from Brighton and Eastbourne in England, emigrated to Australia and both played darts. This early exposure to the sport undoubtedly influenced his future career. Before becoming a full-time professional darts player, Whitlock worked as a bricklayer. He began his competitive darts journey in 1984, honing his skills on the Australian circuit. Information regarding his formal education is not widely publicized, as his focus shifted to his burgeoning darts career from a young age. He made his initial foray into the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) in the early 2000s, signaling the start of a long and successful professional career.
Simon Whitlock’s Career
Simon Whitlock’s professional darts career is a testament to his enduring talent and resilience, marked by success in both major darts organizations. He initially made his mark in Australia, winning numerous titles on the Dartplayers Australia (DPA) tour. His early international appearances included reaching the last 16 of the 2003 PDC World Championship.
Whitlock then transitioned to the British Darts Organisation (BDO) circuit, where he quickly became a contender. He reached the semi-finals of the 2005 BDO World Championship and the International Darts League in both 2005 and 2006. His most significant BDO achievement came in 2008 when he reached the World Championship final, narrowly losing to Mark Webster.
In 2009, “The Wizard” made a permanent return to the PDC, a move that would define his career. He made an immediate impact, reaching the final of the 2010 PDC World Darts Championship in his first year back, a run that captivated the darts world before he ultimately fell to the legendary Phil Taylor. This performance catapulted him into the elite of the sport. Throughout the following years, Whitlock established himself as a consistent threat in major tournaments. A major career breakthrough occurred in 2012 when he won the European Championship, his first televised PDC major title. That same year, he was also a runner-up in the prestigious Premier League Darts.
Whitlock has always been a proud representative of his home nation. A highlight of his career came in 2022 when he partnered with Damon Heta to win the PDC World Cup of Darts for Australia for the first time, a deeply emotional victory they dedicated to fellow Australian player Kyle Anderson. He has remained a constant presence at the tournament, maintaining his record of playing in every edition. Over the years, he has amassed numerous PDC titles, including over a dozen Players Championships and multiple UK Open Qualifiers. Known for his spectacular finishing, he once made history as the first player to hit nine-dart finishes in successive Pro Tour events in 2011. Though he lost his PDC Tour Card at the end of 2024, Whitlock continues to compete, participating in the World Seniors Darts Championship and securing his return to the PDC World Championship by winning the inaugural ANZ Premier League in 2025.
Simon Whitlock Personal Life & Family
Beyond the oche, Simon Whitlock maintains a relatively private life. He has been married twice and is a father to three sons: Nicholas (born in 1991), Mason (born in 2003), and Locky (born in 2007). The family has a clear passion for darts, as his son Mason is also an aspiring professional player. Mason competes on the PDC Development Tour and has already shown considerable promise, even hitting a televised nine-darter. Simon actively supports and mentors his son’s burgeoning career, often practicing and training with him. Whitlock splits his time between his hometown in Hornsby, Australia, and a base in Waterlooville, England, to facilitate his participation in the European-based professional tour. He is a known supporter of the Portsmouth Football Club. In 2012, showcasing a charitable side, Whitlock and other Premier League players recorded a song to raise money for a children’s hospice.
Awards and Achievements of Simon Whitlock
- PDC World Cup of Darts Winner (2022)
- European Championship Winner (2012)
- ANZ Premier League Champion (2025)
- PDC World Darts Championship Runner-up (2010)
- BDO World Darts Championship Runner-up (2008)
- Premier League Darts Runner-up (2012)
- World Grand Prix Runner-up (2017)
- Championship League Darts Runner-up (2012)
- Winner of over 15 PDC Pro Tour titles.
- Winner of over 30 Dartsplayers Australia (DPA) titles.
- Dutch Darts Masters Winner (2012)
- Gleneagle Irish Masters Winner (2010)
Simon Whitlock Net Worth and Income
As a long-standing top professional in the world of darts, Simon Whitlock has accumulated significant career earnings. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated to be between £1.5 million and $2.5 million. His primary sources of income are prize money from the numerous tournaments he competes in on the PDC circuit. Over his career, he has won millions in prize money, which is reflected in his high ranking on the all-time earnings list for darts players. Additional income streams include sponsorships, most notably with leading darts manufacturer Winmau, who produce his signature darts. He also earns from exhibition events and endorsements. His distinctive image and popularity among fans make him a marketable personality, which contributes to his overall earnings through merchandise sales.
Legacy and Influence
Simon Whitlock’s legacy is firmly cemented as a trailblazer for darts in the Southern Hemisphere. He has been arguably the most successful Australian player in the modern era, inspiring a new generation of talent from Down Under. His runs to the finals of both the BDO and PDC World Championships brought Australian darts to global prominence. The emotional 2022 World Cup of Darts victory, alongside Damon Heta, was a landmark moment for the sport in Australia. Known for his sportsmanship and charismatic on-stage persona, “The Wizard” is a firm fan favourite around the world. His iconic walk-on to Men at Work’s “Down Under” is synonymous with his proud national identity. He is also renowned for his incredible finishing ability, with a reputation for hitting spectacular high checkouts under pressure, making him one of the most exciting players to watch. His longevity and ability to remain competitive at the highest level for over two decades underscore his dedication and immense talent.
Interesting Facts about Simon Whitlock
- Before becoming a professional darts player, Simon Whitlock worked as a bricklayer.
- He was the first player in PDC history to hit nine-dart finishes in two consecutive Pro Tour events, achieving the feat in 2011.
- In a viral and bizarre moment during a match in 2020, he calmly swatted a fly that had landed on the dartboard before continuing his throw.
- His son, Mason, is following in his footsteps as a professional darts player and has already hit a televised nine-darter.
- In 2012, he and seven other Premier League players recorded a charity single, “Got My Tickets for the Darts,” with the band Chas & Dave to raise money for Haven House Children’s Hospice.
- He is an avid fan of Portsmouth F.C.
- Whitlock holds an impressive record of never having lost in the first round of a World Championship in his first ten appearances.
Controversies
Simon Whitlock has maintained a professional career largely free from major public controversies. He is generally regarded as a respected and well-liked figure within the darts community. There have been periods in his personal life, such as separations, that he has acknowledged were difficult, but these have not translated into public scandals or controversies impacting his professional standing.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram – Information not disclosed
- Twitter – Information not disclosed
- YouTube – Not publicly available
Final Words about Simon Whitlock
Simon Whitlock’s career is a compelling narrative of talent, persistence, and national pride. As one of the most recognizable figures in darts, “The Wizard” has been a constant presence at the sport’s top table for many years. His journey from the Australian darts circuits to the biggest stages in the world has paved the way for other players from his region. While he has faced fluctuations in form, particularly in recent years which saw him lose his coveted PDC Tour Card, his passion for the game remains undiminished. His victory in the 2025 ANZ Premier League not only showcased his fighting spirit but also secured his return to the Alexandra Palace for the World Championship, proving he is still capable of competing at a high level. As he transitions into the later stages of his career, his focus is also shifting towards mentoring the next generation, especially his son Mason. Simon Whitlock’s legacy as a major champion, a World Cup winner, and a beloved character of the sport is secure.
