Darts star Owen Bates sends message after being banned from 'rude' nickname at PDC World Championships
Darts star Owen Bates has been banned from using his nickname at the PDC World Championships
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British starts star Owen Bates has revealed he's been banned from using his rude nickname on his debut at the PDC World Championships next month.
The 20-year-old qualified for the tournament after finishing second on the PDC Challenged Tour Order of Merit.
Bates made the final of the Challenge Tour event in August last month with victory over Mike Warburton.
He had competed in the event with the nickname 'The Master' on the back of his shirt.
Any suggestions on a new nickname?!
— Owen Bates (@owenbates180) November 6, 2023
Also, get my darts before it’s too late, these will be the last ever ‘The Master’ darts made! https://t.co/4jhkRjqPX9
Combining that with his surname means he's now been given the nickname of 'Master Bates'.
However, per talkSPORT, the PDC have now confirmed the 20-year-old will be banned from using that nickname during the World Championships at Alexandra Palace.
He's now taken to social media to hilariously ask fans for a new nickname.
"Any suggestions on a new nickname?!,' Bates wrote.
"Also, get my darts before it’s too late, these will be the last ever ‘The Master’ darts made!"
Loxley Darts, who have manufactured Bates' darts during his career so far, have called for fans to 'grab the uncensored darts when they can'.
They posted: "Too hot for TV. The Dartist formerly known as Master Bates...
"Grab the uncensored darts while you still can! "The first production run of the Gen1 darts will be the only run as he now searches for a new darting nick-name to take forward in his PDC pro career."
The World Championships are due to commence on December 15 and will run until January 3.
And Bates, after qualifying, was delighted.
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Darts star Owen Bates has qualified for the PDC World Championships at Alexandra Palace
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Bates has also secured a two-year tour card as a result of his recent success.
He said on social media: "Words can’t describe how thankful I am to everyone around me and all the people who have messaged me and showed me support over the last year.
"Absolutely over the moon to say I’ve secured a two year PDC tour card along with a place at the PDC World Championships. Ally Pally."