Andrew Gilding: The Rise of a Darts Legend in the PDC Circuit

Andrew Gilding is a professional darts player who has become a key figure in the PDC, with a notable career that includes significant victories, such as the 2023 UK Open. Born in 1970, Gilding has enjoyed steady progress in his career, breaking through at a later stage and establishing himself as a formidable competitor. His victory at the UK Open, at the age of 52, made him the oldest first-time winner of a PDC major event. Gilding’s style is methodical, and he is known for his consistency and mental toughness, both of which have earned him a spot in the top 30 rankings of the PDC. Alongside his professional life, Andrew Gilding’s personal story, including his battle with depression, makes his achievements even more impressive. This article will explore his age, family, career stats, net worth, and his impact on the darts world.

Introduction

Andrew Gilding, known by his nickname “Goldfinger,” has risen to prominence in the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) circuit over the past decade. As one of the most determined and skilled players in modern darts, Gilding’s rise to the top has been nothing short of inspiring. His victory at the 2023 UK Open, where he defeated Michael van Gerwen in a thrilling final, cemented his place as one of the leading figures in the darts world. This article delves into Andrew Gilding’s career, family, age, net worth, and his remarkable journey to the upper echelons of professional darts.

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Andrew Gilding is a professional darts player who has become a key figure in the PDC, with a notable career that includes significant victories, such as the 2023 UK Open. Born in 1970, Gilding has enjoyed steady progress in his career, breaking through at a later stage and establishing himself as a formidable competitor. His victory at the UK Open, at the age of 52, made him the oldest first-time winner of a PDC major event. Gilding’s style is methodical, and he is known for his consistency and mental toughness, both of which have earned him a spot in the top 30 rankings of the PDC. Alongside his professional life, Andrew Gilding’s personal story, including his battle with depression, makes his achievements even more impressive. This article will explore his age, family, career stats, net worth, and his impact on the darts world.

Andrew Gilding’s Early Life

Born on December 7, 1970, in Bungay, Suffolk, England, Andrew Gilding had humble beginnings. Raised in a working-class family, Gilding initially worked in various jobs, including as a butcher and factory worker. He began playing darts recreationally in his spare time, which eventually sparked his passion for the sport. Although Gilding was a relatively late starter in the professional darts world, he quickly made a name for himself in local tournaments before moving on to more competitive levels.

His dedication to improving his darts skills paid off when he earned a place in the UK Open in 2011 as a pub qualifier. His strong performance in that competition, where he reached the last 32, marked the beginning of his professional career in the PDC. From there, Gilding’s trajectory steadily rose as he began to gain attention for his consistency and mental toughness on the board.

Andrew Gilding’s Professional Darts Career

Gilding’s career in the Professional Darts Corporation has been marked by significant achievements, particularly his victory in the 2023 UK Open. At the age of 52, he became the oldest player to win a PDC premier televised event for the first time. His victory was a monumental moment, not just for Gilding but for the sport of darts, proving that success can come at any stage of a player’s career.

Andrew Gilding’s breakthrough moment in professional darts occurred during the 2011 UK Open. His performance earned him recognition, and over the years, he steadily improved his standing in the rankings. In addition to his victory at the UK Open, Gilding has made notable appearances at other major PDC events, such as the World Matchplay, World Grand Prix, and the World Championship. His ability to perform under pressure and his consistency make him one of the most reliable players in the PDC circuit.

Despite his late start in professional darts, Gilding’s steady progression and eventual success prove that determination and hard work can lead to triumph, no matter how old a player is when they start their journey.

Andrew Gilding’s Age: A Testament to Consistency and Longevity

Andrew Gilding was born on December 7, 1970, making him 54 years old as of 2025. While many darts players peak in their 20s or early 30s, Gilding’s rise to prominence in his 40s and 50s defies conventional expectations. His career serves as an inspiration to many who believe that age should not be a barrier to success in professional sports. Gilding’s triumph at the UK Open at 52 demonstrated that skill, experience, and mental resilience can lead to success, regardless of age.

His ability to remain competitive in a sport that requires both physical precision and mental acuity is a testament to his dedication to his craft. Over the years, Gilding has worked on refining his technique and maintaining his sharp focus, which has allowed him to perform at the highest level for an extended period.

Andrew Gilding’s Family: A Supportive Foundation

While Andrew Gilding has gained recognition for his achievements in the world of darts, his family has played a crucial role in supporting him throughout his career. Though details about his family are not widely publicized, it is clear that Gilding’s personal life and his strong support network have helped him navigate the pressures of professional sports.

Gilding has spoken openly in interviews about the positive impact that his family has had on his life, particularly during difficult times. His battle with depression in earlier years was a challenging chapter in his life, and the support of his loved ones played a significant role in his recovery. As a result, he attributes much of his mental toughness and resilience to his family’s encouragement.

Andrew Gilding’s Stats: Career Achievements and Performance

Andrew Gilding’s stats tell the story of a player who has consistently been in the mix at some of the biggest events in the darts calendar. His victory at the 2023 UK Open was a career-defining moment, but it is just one of many highlights. Over the years, Gilding has amassed several notable performances at major tournaments.

UK Open 2023: Winner

World Matchplay: Quarterfinals (2024)

World Grand Prix: Quarterfinals (2024)

World Championship: Last 32 (2016, 2017, 2025)

Gilding has become a fixture in the top 30 of the PDC rankings, currently sitting at world number 27 as of 2025. His steady performances in ranking events have secured his place among the top players, and his consistency on the big stage continues to make him a formidable opponent.

Andrew Gilding’s Net Worth: Financial Success in Darts

As of 2025, Andrew Gilding’s net worth is estimated to be around $2 million. Much of his wealth comes from his earnings in PDC events, including prize money from major tournaments like the UK Open. His financial success also comes from sponsorship deals and his popularity among darts fans.

Although Gilding has not yet reached the multi-millionaire status of some of the top names in darts, his career achievements and steady income from tournament winnings and sponsorships have allowed him to build a comfortable financial portfolio. His late-career success, particularly his victory at the UK Open, has added significantly to his earnings.

Playing Style: A Steady Approach to Darts

One of the reasons Andrew Gilding has been able to maintain his place at the top level of darts is his methodical playing style. He is known for being a consistent and steady performer, with a strong emphasis on precision and mental focus. His game is built around minimizing errors and taking advantage of opponents’ mistakes, making him a difficult player to defeat.

Gilding uses 25-gram Cosmo Signature darts, and his walk-on music is “Gold” by Spandau Ballet, a fitting tribute to his nickname. His focus on consistency and his ability to stay calm under pressure have earned him respect from both fans and fellow players.

Conclusion

Andrew Gilding’s journey from a pub qualifier to a major tournament winner is a story of perseverance, resilience, and dedication. At 54 years old, Gilding has proven that success in darts is not solely determined by age, but by a player’s ability to adapt, refine their skills, and maintain mental toughness. His triumph at the 2023 UK Open solidified his place in darts history, and his career continues to inspire new generations of players.

Whether you’re interested in his playing style, family life, career stats, or financial success, Andrew Gilding’s story is a testament to the power of hard work and the impact that determination can have on a career. His legacy in darts is one that will endure for years to come, and his journey is far from over.