Darts is having a moment, especially after Luke Littler’s impressive first win at the World Darts Championship.
With dartboard sales skyrocketing, Littler’s face popping up everywhere, and even Bahrain hosting a World Series event last month, it’s clear that darts mania has taken off—reaching all the way to the Middle East.
Then there’s the power of a walk-on song. A carefully chosen track can turn a player into an instant fan favourite and send their Spotify streams soaring, just like Littler’s ‘Green Light’ by Pitbull did during the World Championship.
So, what if the Ryder Cup introduced walk-on music for the first tee? We asked some of Europe’s brightest stars what song they’d pick to make their entrance at Bethpage Black this September…
Francesco Molinari – I’d probably have to pick a Taylor Swift song because my kids would be upset if I didn’t! I’d ask them for advice on which song to choose—they know a lot more than I do. I actually went to her concert, thanks to them, and while I didn’t start as a fan, I’m slowly becoming half a ‘Swiftie’!
Justin Rose – I’ve always loved Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” – “You better lose yourself in the music, the moment, you own it.” It’s all about losing yourself and focusing in, which is the mindset you need in elite sport. As a walk-on song, I’d want something that inspires me, but also reminds me of a few things.
Laurie Canter – I’m not sure about the name, but I know the song… (hums ‘Freed from Desire’). That would definitely be my song—it’s got the effect I’d want on me and the crowd.
Tyrrell Hatton – After watching the World Darts Championship, I got into Luke Littler’s song, “Green Light.” After listening to the lyrics, I really like it. It makes you feel ready to go, so I’d go with that.
Tommy Fleetwood – It would have to be some sort of Fleetwood Mac song, right? There are so many great ones to choose from, but we’ll figure something out.
Matt Wallace – I’ve got no idea! It’d have to be something related to Manchester United. (Sings: “Take me Home, United Road, To the place, I belong, To Old Trafford, to see United”)
Matteo Manassero – This is tough, I’m not prepared for this! But I’ll go with “Eye of the Tiger”—it pumps me up a bit.
Matthieu Pavon – It’s tricky, but I’d go with “Lose Yourself” by Eminem. You’ve got one shot, one opportunity. It fits perfectly.
Romain Langasque – Something that motivates me… Maybe “Eye of the Tiger.” I’d be thinking, “I’m going to destroy this guy!”
Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen – It’s got to be an Eminem song. Either “Lose Yourself” or “Till I Collapse” because they get me fired up. Eminem really gets me going.
Rasmus Højgaard – It’s got to be either a Danish song or an Oasis one. The Danish song would be “Hot,” but the Oasis song would be “Supersonic.” We’ve got tickets to see Oasis at Wembley, and we’re so excited!
Aaron Rai – I actually watched 8 Mile on a flight recently, so I’d have to go with “Lose Yourself.”
Niklas Nørgaard – It’d be something by Avicii since I’m a huge fan. Let’s go with “Fade into Darkness.”
Thorbjörn Olesen – You’ve put me on the spot! I love darts by the way; it’s such good fun in London. For me, I’d go with a nice house song—something soft and deep to get the crowd pumped, but not too hard.
Nicolai Højgaard – I’m really into Oasis, so “Supersonic” would be my pick. I’m seeing them at Wembley this year, and I can’t wait!
Paul Waring – It would definitely be “Enter Sandman” by Metallica.
Tom McKibbin – I’m not sure. I’d probably be the worst DJ ever, so I’d just copy someone else’s song.
