Max Mad
| Max Mad | |
|---|---|
| File:MaxMad2032.png Mad at the 2032 ODF Premier League | |
| Personal information | |
| Nickname | "Mayhem" |
| Born | August 5, 1996 Houston, Texas, United States |
| Home town | Austin, Texas |
| Darts information | |
| Playing darts since | 2013 |
| Darts | 22g Unicorn Max Mad Signature |
| Laterality | Right-handed |
| Walk-on music | "Welcome to the Jungle" by Guns N' Roses |
| Organisation (see split in darts) | |
| Current world ranking | World No. 8 (as of 2026) |
Max Mad (born 5 August 1996) is an American professional darts player who competes in Open Darts Federation (ODF) events. He is one of the most recognizable figures in the sport, known for his flamboyant personality, crowd-pleasing antics, and fast-paced, high-risk playing style. As of 2034, he is ranked world number 8 and is a two-time major champion, having won the 2022 ODF Continental Masters and the 2023 ODF World Cup of Darts alongside Elias Storm.
Mad began his darts career in local Texas leagues and turned professional in 2018. He spent several years as an unseeded qualifier before reaching his first televised final at the 2021 ODF Invitational Championship, which launched him into the top 32. His first major breakthrough came the following year, when he won the Continental Masters, defeating Logan White and Victor Linz en route to the title. In 2023, Mad reached the semi-finals of the ODF World Championship and secured his second major title at the World Cup of Darts with Storm, defeating England in the final.
Mad’s popularity grew rapidly due to his unpredictability on stage. His entrances often involve theatrical stunts, and his games are marked by huge scoring swings, dramatic celebrations, and moments of chaos. While critics have questioned his consistency, his peak performances have earned him victories over nearly every top-ranked player, including Storm, Ethan Steel, and Cal Derwent.
Career
Early career (2013–2020)
Mad began playing darts in amateur circuits throughout Texas, gaining attention for his unique style and trash-talking flair. He attempted Q-School multiple times before earning a full ODF Tour Card in 2018. During his early years, Mad struggled to maintain consistent results and often exited in the early rounds of floor events.
Breakthrough (2021–2023)
In 2021, Mad made a surprise run to the final of the ODF Invitational Championship, defeating three seeded players before falling to Logan White. The result launched him into the top 32 and secured his place on the televised circuit. In 2022, he won the Continental Masters, his first major title, and ended the season ranked World No. 11. In 2023, he reached the semi-finals of the World Championship and won the ODF World Cup of Darts with Elias Storm, becoming the first American duo to win the event.
Continued presence (2024–present)
Mad reached the final of the 2024 ODF Premier League Darts, finishing second in the league phase and defeating Cal Derwent in the semi-finals. He lost 18–12 in the final to Storm, but the performance cemented his place among the sport’s top-tier competitors. In the years since, Mad has remained a mainstay in the top 10 rankings, with several quarter-final and semi-final appearances across televised events. While he has yet to capture a World Championship title, he continues to be one of the most popular and marketable figures on tour.
Playing style and persona
Mad is known for his quick throw, high-scoring volatility, and emotional stage presence. He frequently throws within five seconds of stepping to the oche, and his ability to string together sudden runs of scoring pressure has earned him the nickname "Mayhem." He thrives in high-energy environments and often plays to the crowd—sometimes to his own detriment, losing focus during quieter or slower-paced matches.
He has drawn comparisons to players like Peter Wright and Wayne Mardle for his charisma and unpredictability. Commentators often refer to him as a “chaos engine,” capable of brilliance and collapse within the same set. Despite this, he has a reputation for stepping up in clutch moments and has beaten every top player on tour at least once.
Major achievements
- ODF Continental Masters
- Winner (1): 2022
- ODF World Cup of Darts
- Winner (1): 2023 (with Elias Storm)
- ODF Premier League Darts
- Finalist (1): 2024
- ODF World Championship
- Semi-finalist (1): 2023
Performance timeline
Template:ODF Performance Timeline
See also
References