Cardiff-born referee Huw Ware has expressed his pride in becoming the first openly gay man to officiate a PDC World Darts Championship final. Ware oversaw the second half of the historic match, where Luke Littler defeated Michael Van Gerwen to become the youngest-ever PDC World Champion.
Ware, 31, hopes his trailblazing role will inspire future generations and contribute to breaking down barriers in the sport, which he described as having a traditionally “macho” culture.
Reflecting on his eight-year journey with the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC), Ware admitted it hadn’t always been easy. “Especially in my early years, I went through a lot, and it was a big struggle at times,” he said. “But what has been amazing to me is seeing the changes darts has gone through over the years, to a place now where it is a lot better than what it was when I first joined.”
Despite these challenges, Ware described officiating the final as “the biggest day of my life.” He added, “It was one of the greatest honours of my life to take charge of the second half and call in the champion.”
Ware highlighted the importance of LGBTQ+ representation in high-profile sporting events. He noted that seeing openly gay figures in sports like darts, which often has a “macho” image, can inspire others.
“The best thing I could offer is visibility,” he explained. “We’ve all seen some of the vitriol that some players have got for coming out. It’s important for a ref to put yourself forward as well.”
Ware credits fellow Welshman Nigel Owens, the renowned Rugby World Cup referee, for inspiring him after coming out in 2007. “He broke down barriers for me back when he refereed the World Cup final in 2015. I felt like I had a lot in common with him. I could look at him and say, ‘he has got to the pinnacle, and so can I.’”
Although Ware acknowledges progress, he believes sports still have strides to make in becoming fully inclusive. “We look at everything that’s going on with the LGBTQ+ discussion in sport these days—the fires are still very much raging. I hope that I can help to break down barriers for the next generation,” he said.
In a heartfelt blog post written before the final, Ware addressed LGBTQ+ youth who might fear their sexuality could limit their opportunities. He wrote, “Worlds, such as the sports world, are open to everybody, both gay and straight. No matter who you are, you can achieve in any world you want to, and most importantly, you can belong.”
Ware is optimistic about the future of darts, particularly in Wales. He noted an increased interest in the sport, recalling a packed junior event in Aberdare that showcased a promising new generation of players. “In terms of doubts about the sport and its future, it couldn’t be in a more healthy place,” he said.
As Ware looks forward to officiating more finals, he is taking time to celebrate his historic achievement. “I am celebrating tonight with a few friends. I can’t wait,” he said after a gruelling fortnight of calling scores at the oche.
