Scandal-engulfed royal family suffers new humiliation

The comments come amid what insiders describe as a annus horribilis for the royals, about Prince Harry’s ongoing estrangement from the family, King Charles, 77, facing a highly publicized battle with cancer, and Andrew, 65, enmeshed in the long-running Jeffrey Epstein scandal.

A royal aide claimed: “It’s been a brutal year. Every week seems to bring a new headline, and now they can’t even get a free ticket to watch a match.”

Another source added: “From personal crises to public scrutiny, they are finally learning that even their privileges have their limits.”

Hearn, who has led the PDC since 1992, said the expectation that status alone provides access is one he refuses to honor.

“I get tired of people asking me for tickets, whether it’s royalties or high-earning footballers trying to take me away,” he said.

The promoter has made a habit of insisting on payment to show respect for the sport and its growing international profile.