What Does Walkover Mean in Darts? Term Explained Simply
If you’ve ever watched a darts match or scanned tournament schedules, you might have seen the word “walkover” and wondered what it means. It sounds technical, but the idea is straightforward once you’ve seen how events are organised.
Understanding key terms makes darts easier to follow, whether you’re playing at the pub or keeping an eye on professional fixtures. A bit of insight into how matches are recorded can make results clearer.
Rules can vary slightly between venues and betting sites, so the way a walkover is handled is not always identical. In the UK, events linked to betting are regulated to keep outcomes clear and properly recorded. Read on to learn more.
What a Walkover Means in Darts
A walkover in darts is when a player or team advances to the next round without playing because their opponent cannot take part. Common reasons include illness, travel problems or disqualification before the match begins.
When this happens, the result is recorded as a win for the player who remains. No darts are thrown and you’ll usually see “W/O” or “walkover” next to the player’s name in the results. Because tournaments run to a schedule, arriving too late can also lead to a walkover if officials cannot delay the session.
In online leagues, organisers might record or process a walkover slightly differently. It might be a good idea to check a competition’s rules so you know how these situations are handled. If you do decide to try your hand at sports betting, remember to do so responsibly and within your means; never wager more than you can afford to lose.
When Does a Walkover Happen in Darts?
A walkover happens when a player is unable to start a scheduled match. Tournaments rely on strict timings so that sessions finish on time, broadcasters can plan coverage and players know when to warm up. If someone cannot be present or ready to throw by the required point, the match can be awarded to their opponent.
Disqualification can also lead to a walkover if an issue is identified before play begins. Typical causes include not meeting equipment specifications, ignoring dress requirements or breaching event rules during the build-up. In those cases, the player is not allowed to take the stage, and the opponent advances.
In online formats, technical problems can have the same effect. If a player cannot connect or repeatedly fails to meet check-in procedures, organisers may treat it as a no-start and award a walkover under their published terms.
Why Do Walkovers Occur in Professional Matches?
At professional level, the reasons are similar but the environment is less forgiving. Players often travel across countries in short windows, so illness, visa issues or transport delays can make it impossible to arrive in time for a specific session. With tight TV slots and full arenas, events cannot easily reshuffle the order of play, so a late arrival can mean the match never starts.
Professional rules are also closely enforced. Equipment is checked, practice routines are timed and conduct is monitored from the moment players report to the venue. If something prevents a player from meeting those requirements before the first dart is thrown, the opponent typically receives a walkover.
Qualifiers and smaller tours sometimes use online stages. If a player cannot connect or verify their participation by the deadline, the organiser’s rules decide whether the tie is awarded as a walkover or rescheduled.
Is a Walkover the Same as a Forfeit?
They are related but not the same. A walkover is awarded when a match does not start because one player cannot take part. A forfeit usually means a match has started and then ends early, for example due to a rules breach or a player withdrawing mid-game.
Forfeits may come with additional penalties under tournament rules, such as fines or removal from later rounds. Walkovers are usually just an administrative result: the absent player is out, and the opponent goes through. Different competitions might use slightly different words in their paperwork, but the distinction is whether any darts were thrown.
Does a Walkover Affect Player Rankings or Prize Money?
It can, depending on the event. Many tournaments award ranking points and prize money based on the round reached rather than the number of matches played. If a player reaches the next stage because of a walkover, they often receive the same progression and points they would have earned by winning a scheduled match.
Payment structures vary. Some events credit the standard prize for the round reached, while others include conditions such as appearance requirements or staged payments across rounds. For example, if a player reaches the quarter-finals via walkover, they may receive the quarter-final allocation, then play as normal in the next round.
The key is that each competition publishes its own rules. If you follow a particular tour, its handbook or event page will explain exactly how walkovers affect rankings and payouts.
Bet On Darts Online
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Our platform is designed to make things straightforward, from your first deposit through to finding upcoming matches and checking your bets. Event rules and settlement terms are available on each market page, so you can see how results like walkovers are handled before you get involved.
We’re licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), with transparent information on events, payouts and account tools. If you’d like to explore darts betting with us, feel free to take a look at what’s on. Always set limits that suit your budget, and use our on-site tools and support if you ever need a hand. Always keep responsible gambling practices in mind.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
