'Becoming a professional - no': - Germany's next darting star causes a stir with surprising career plan

At just 18 years old, Yorick Hofkens has already established himself as one of the brightest young prospects in German darts. Over the past few months, he has put together an impressive run of results — reaching a final on the Next Gen Tour, a semi-final on the Challenge Tour, and even making his European Tour debut. On that stage, he pushed the experienced Scot Cameron Menzies all the way to a deciding leg, leaving a lasting impression.

Speaking on the Tops Tops Tops podcast with Adrian Geiler, Hofkens reflected on his journey so far, his ambitions, and whether a professional career is truly on the cards. From the outset, the teenager underlined the value of the Next Gen circuit in his development. “It’s great fun. You have to travel a bit, but it’s only across Germany and therefore easy to get to. Above all, it’s good practice and great training. It has helped my game enormously, even if it depends on your form on the day, of course.”

Another key topic was the Super League, for which Hofkens has all but sealed qualification via the youth rankings. For him, it represents the realisation of a long-held dream. “That was a childhood dream of mine. Four or five years ago, I was still watching the Super League on television. Now to play in it myself would be a huge success for me.”

As for his preparation, Hofkens keeps it simple: “Maybe train a bit at home, I haven’t done that for a long time. And then just do my best and have a lot of fun.”

Surprising revelation

His European Tour debut was another highlight, an experience he recalled with enthusiasm. “I took the level with me, it’s currently great fun and I’m trying to make the most of it. The spectators were great, Cameron Menzies himself was great — it was simply a super experience.”

Yet despite his success, Hofkens is clear that a traditional professional career is not his goal. “Becoming a professional — no. My dream was never to be a professional permanently. My dream was to play in the World Championship one day or in the Super League, which might happen soon. But being an active professional dart player is really not my thing. I’d rather have a normal job, have fun in life and start a family. Of course I’ll do my best and maybe you’ll still see me at tournaments. But let’s see what happens.”

That doesn’t mean Hofkens will shy away from future opportunities. With time on his side, he intends to give it a go in the host nation qualifiers. “This year I have plenty of time, next year it’s back to the qualifiers. I’ll step on the gas when I’m there. It can be good, it can be bad. I’m going to have fun and see what happens.”

For now, Germany’s latest emerging talent is simply enjoying the game, taking every step as it comes — and making sure he has fun along the way.