RICKY EVANS has admitted he needs to “grow up” after his on-stage antics came under fire.
Sky Sports pundit Wayne Mardle labelled Rapid’s behaviour as “unprofessional” following his 4-2 defeat to Charlie Manby in the third round of the World Championship – a competition Luke Littler went on to win for the second year running.
The Kettering ace’s concentration and focus appeared to fade as the match at Ally Pally progressed and it looked like he had given up.
Evans, World No40, accepts the criticism and believes his personality can sometimes be misunderstood on the big stage.
He returns to the stage this week in the World Masters qualifying rounds and said: “I’ve got one of those personalities where it just looks like I’m not trying in a way.
“But when they’re going, like I said, I did it at the Grand Slam and I won the game. So it does work.
“I just have to grow up. Just learn how to lose with dignity.
“But that’s life. Hopefully we can get that sorted this year and we can get the happy Ricky and smiley again.
“I did get a bit of hate online and probably so in a way.”
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Evans enjoyed a steady 2025 campaign, reaching the quarter-finals of the Grand Slam and Players Championship 16.
The 35-year-old has built a huge fanbase thanks to his theatrical walk-ons and quick throwing style but remains realistic about his chances of a Premier League call-up.
He added: “For someone that’s never won nothing, I’ve got one of the biggest fan bases in the world.
“I’m not going to go full Bunting on everyone, but it’s brilliant. I can’t thank them enough.
“I love showing. I love making people laugh. That is my goal in life.
“There’s a lot of doom and gloom in the world these days. So if one silly darts player can make you smile on a walk-on or because of a big checkout, then let that be me.
“I class myself as a big show-off. Keep cheering me on because I’m just going to keep coming up with these silly ideas and walk-ons. Because that’s who I am.
“I’m not good enough (for the Premier League). I’ve got the odd hundred average in me, but they do it every week, them boys.
“My music and walk-ons would certainly liven it up and we’d have a bit of fun on it. I think I’d put bums on seats.”
Evans admits that his new girlfriend Sharne has helped him over the heartbreaking loss of his best pal and sister Elisha through illness almost a year ago.
He continued: “I was going through a bad time. I’ve lost one best friend and I’ve got another one now. So it’s lovely. I’ve got something to play for now.
“Obviously, I’m never going to live at home with my dad all the time. I can move out maybe one day and start a life with her. That’s the goal.”
