Winning a World Championship guarantees a place in darts history, but it doesn't guarantee a Tour Card for life.
One of the fascinating aspects of the modern darts landscape is seeing former BDO, WDF and PDC World Champions continuing to compete on the grassroots and open circuit long after their days on the biggest stages.
Using the latest Q4QS rankings database, I took a look at some former World Champions who are still active and how they are performing in 2026.
Scott Waites (BDO World Champion)
Current Q4QS Rank: #28
Arguably the standout performer on this list.
The two-time BDO World Champion sits comfortably inside the Q4QS Top 30 and continues to produce high-quality darts. His average of 89.26 and 64.6% win rate show that he remains one of the most dangerous players on the open circuit.
Many players would still dread seeing Waites appear in their section of the draw.
Neil Duff (WDF World Champion)
Current Q4QS Rank: #99
Neil Duff continues to prove that his Lakeside triumph was no fluke. He boasts one of the strongest records of any former world champion currently outside the professional tour structure.
With 42 wins from 49 matches and an outstanding 85.7% win rate, Duff remains a major force wherever he plays.
Steve Beaton (Former PDC World Champion)
Current Q4QS Rank: #139
"The Bronzed Adonis" may have stepped away from the PDC Tour, but he clearly hasn't stopped winning matches.
Beaton has won 27 of his 37 recorded matches and carries a strong 73.0% win rate. His consistency continues to make him a threat at events around the country.
Lisa Ashton (BDO Women's World Champion)
Current Q4QS Rank: #267
One of the most successful women's players in history, Ashton remains highly competitive.
Her 81.6% win rate is among the best of any player featured in this article, demonstrating that she is still regularly making deep runs in tournaments.
Jelle Klaasen (BDO World Champion)
Current Q4QS Rank: #441
The youngest-ever BDO World Champion is still active and competing regularly.
Klaasen remains capable of producing quality performances and continues to be a recognisable name from one of the most memorable eras of Lakeside darts.Richie Burnett (BDO World Champion)
Current Q4QS Rank: #617
The 1995 World Champion continues to compete and remains a familiar face on the circuit.
While the results are naturally not as dominant as during his peak years, Burnett still maintains a winning record and continues to add matches to an already remarkable darts career.
John Part (PDC World Champion)
Current Q4QS Rank: #676
Three-time World Champion John Part remains one of the most respected figures in the sport.
Although much of his time is now spent in commentary and media work, he still appears in events and continues to test himself against the next generation of players.
Trina Gulliver (BDO Women's World Champion)
Current Q4QS Rank: #1345
A true pioneer of women's darts, Gulliver remains active and continues to record victories more than two decades after establishing herself as one of the sport's greatest champions.
What Does It Tell Us?
One thing becomes clear from the Q4QS database: class doesn't disappear.
Some former world champions are still competing at a level capable of challenging elite players, while others continue to play simply because they love the game.
Whether they are fighting for titles, enjoying the competition, or inspiring the next generation, these former champions continue to leave their mark on the darts scene long after their names were etched onto famous trophies.
