Adrian Lewis in defiant ‘handouts’ post as he issues statement ahead of World Darts Championship
But Lewis is preparing a return to darts - see when below
ADRIAN Lewis has revealed he won't be looking for any 'handouts' after losing his PDC Tour Card.
Last year, the two-time world champion revealed he would be taking a break from darts.
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However, he is set to lose his status as a pro in January because he hasn't played.
There has been a clamour for Lewis to get a free pass - given his standing in the game.
Former PDC chief Barry Hearn claimed the four-time World Cup of Darts winner would have to go through Q School, a qualifying event, to get it back.
Reacting to Hearn's comments on social media, Lewis insisted he wasn't looking for any freebies.
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"I'd never want any handouts and I'd never ask for one," Lewis wrote on X.
"I've taken 21 months off the PDC circuit for my own personal reasons hence why I aren't playing at this year's world championships.
"Hope everyone enjoys the tournament and enjoys the festive period."
Hearn told us last week Lewis wouldn't receive any special treatment.
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He said: "[He will receive] absolutely none. Nor can there be [any special dispensation handed out]."
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He added: "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."
For now, Lewis, who was called the game's biggest cheater by rival Michael Van Gerwen, is planning his return to the sport in 2025.
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"I'm delighted to be returning to the sport that I love, and to be backed by Modus Sports Management going forward," he said.
"I feel refreshed and re-energised, and I'm looking forward to seeing what the future holds for me.
"I will not be rushing back to Q-School just yet, but I am not ruling it out in the future. Firstly I shall be looking to play the Modus Super Series in 2025 as my pathway back to the professional circuit."
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