Fallon Sherrock, forever etched into darts history as the “Queen of the Palace”, has made a decision that sent shockwaves through the darting world. After battling fatigue, health complications, and mounting pressure on and off the oche, Sherrock has announced she will take a year-long sabbatical in 2026. And while it may look like a step back, fans are already speculating it could be the boldest career move she’s ever made.
For years, Sherrock has carried the weight of expectation since her legendary run at the 2020 PDC World Championship, where she smashed barriers and became a global phenomenon. But glory comes with a price. Sherrock has been candid about her struggles with kidney disease, constant fatigue, and the toll of balancing elite sport with personal challenges. “I need to get myself well again,” she admitted, in an emotional statement that resonated far beyond the darts stage.
Rather than limp through tournaments at half-strength, Sherrock has opted for a strategic reset. Her 2025 season will be her “farewell tour” before stepping away—meaning fans can expect her to swing big at the Grand Slam, Women’s Series, and potentially the World Championship. “If I’m taking time off, I want to go out with a bang,” she told reporters, making it clear she won’t be fading quietly into the background.
Critics have wondered whether the sabbatical signals the beginning of the end. But Sherrock’s history says otherwise. Time and again, she’s proven doubters wrong—whether by toppling top-seeded men on darts’ biggest stage or becoming the first woman to hit a televised nine-dart finish. A year away could provide the recovery and reset her career desperately needs.
Off the oche, the sabbatical might also give Sherrock time to explore new ventures—from punditry and exhibition tours to inspiring the next generation of female players. After all, her influence has already opened doors for women in darts, and a refreshed Fallon could return as not just a competitor, but a mentor and ambassador.
Still, one burning question dominates fan forums: will she come back stronger or risk fading from the spotlight? Darts is a sport where momentum matters, and a year away leaves plenty of room for rivals—like Beau Greaves—to tighten their grip on dominance. But then again, Sherrock has never been one to play by the script.
One thing is certain: the Queen of the Palace is stepping away on her own terms. And if history has taught us anything, when Fallon Sherrock writes the next chapter, it’s going to be unmissable.
