Gary Anderson launched a scathing attack on darts influencers following his opening match at the Winmau World Masters on Thursday evening.
The 55-year-old Scottish star, currently ranked sixth in the world, branded the growing wave of YouTubers in the sport as "a load of b******s" and "t*****s" during an unexpected post-match tirade.
Anderson's verbal assault came moments after he secured a hard-fought 3-2 comeback victory against Dutch opponent Niels Zonneveld at the Milton Keynes venue.
The outburst appeared to catch observers off guard, arriving seemingly from nowhere after what had been a tense encounter on the oche.
The veteran player made clear his disdain for online content creators attempting to teach the sport, despite admitting he keeps an eye on their output.
"I'm a darts player, I'm not here to sit and talk and tell stories. And when I do, I usually get into trouble," Anderson said.
"I don't do YouTube, but I'm watching. We've got, what do you call them? Influencers? How to play darts."
Gary Anderson believes YouTubers are harming the sport of darts
|REUTERS
He was particularly dismissive of the playing ability of those offering instruction online.
"I've never seen the bloke in my life, I've watched him play darts, he's absolutely rank at it. So why watch him?" Anderson added.
Anderson directed his message squarely at young players, urging them to ignore expensive equipment promoted by influencers.
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Five facts darts fans might not know | PA/GBNEWS"Kids need to learn they can go buy a set of darts that cost you £10, £20, £40, £50. Instead of spending hundreds of pounds on darts and play the game," he stated.
"Influencers? What a load of b******s. Absolutely t*****s.
"It's a load of rubbish. For young kids, it ain't good. Just let them play darts and enjoy. Buy a £20 set of darts and go and enjoy your game of darts. End of. Easy."
Anderson's victory over Zonneveld required considerable resilience after a poor opening to the contest.
The Scot struggled badly with his finishing early on, missing numerous doubles as his opponent claimed the first set 2-0.
Gary Anderson's rant came following his victory over Niels Zonneveld
|REUTERS
However, Anderson found his rhythm and surged ahead by taking four of the following five legs to establish control.
Zonneveld refused to surrender, producing a superb 121 checkout to force a decider.
The experienced Anderson proved too composed in the final set, sealing the win with precise finishes on tops and double 16.
Elsewhere at the tournament, Chris Dobey dispatched Jermaine Wattimena 3-0, whilst James Wade edged past Madars Razma 3-2.