Emma Paton reveals her obsession with fan watching at Ally Pally

In the United Kingdom, Emma Paton is anticipated to host the PDC World Darts Championship as it commences on December 15, 2024. Over three weeks, darts enthusiasts will tune in to an impressive 106 hours of gameplay, showcasing some of the best talents in the sport. Emma, known as the 'Queen of Ally Pally,' is particularly excited about the entertaining atmosphere where fans often arrive in extravagant costumes. Past events have included fans dressed as a Pope, a chicken, and even a traffic cone, reflecting an amusing costume carnival ambiance at the Alexandra Palace during the championship. Emma has openly stated her affection for 'fan watching,' acknowledging how the fantastical outfits often distract her while she works. She mentioned that she enjoys spotting costumes that stand out, especially inflatable dinosaur outfits that require dedication from the wearers to remain comfortable during the lengthy event. The playful spirit of the fans contributes notably to what has become more than just a competitive darts event; it is a celebration of creativity and individuality. While the championship is a professional competition with a grand prize of £2.5 million awaiting the winner, Emma's comments highlight the dual nature of this event. Luke Littler is viewed as one of the top contenders, sitting as the bookies' favorite to claim the title. The reigning champion from the previous year, Luke Humphries, is also expected to perform well, alongside Gary Anderson, who ranks among the top three favorites to win. Moreover, Emma reflected on her first experience hosting the World Darts Championship, recalling a rather unpleasant observation of a fan, clad in a traffic cone costume, being ill in his shoe. This experience, albeit unfortunate, exemplifies the unpredictable nature of the event where excitement, laughter, and occasionally awkward moments unfold in front of millions of viewers worldwide. As the championship draws near, anticipation builds not only for the outstanding darts to be played but also for the creativity of the many fans who will come together to celebrate the sport.