‘I’m enjoying on the World Darts Championship – here is how I’m spending Christmas’
EXCLUSIVE Stephen Bunting will be back after Christmas after navigating clashes with Sebastian Bialecki and Nitin Kumar and he’s told Daily Star Sport how he’ll be practicing at home
The Paddy Power PDC World Darts Championships is in full swing, with stars heading home for the festive period during the three-day break over the holidays.
Stephen Bunting has already overcome clashes with Sebastian Bialecki and Nitin Kumar to book his spot after Christmas against James Hurrell, and the World No.4 will be back on the board on Christmas Day.
Speaking to Daily Star Sport, via DreamVegas, the Bullet said: “After that [Round 1 and Round 2], I’ll come home again and then obviously we’ve got the Christmas break. I probably won’t be back until maybe Boxing Day or the 27th.
“If that’s the case, then I’ll be on the practice board after Christmas dinner and making sure I return back to the Ally Pally in strong shape.”
Bunting survived a scare against Bialecki, but looked to be back to his brilliant best in the second round against Kumar – while other seeds fell short before Christmas. However for Bunting, it’s not just about winning.
The wildly popular star continued: “I think the crowd understands darts. When they see a big score, a 180, or a big finish, that can turn everything around.
“It’s about entertaining them – that’s what we’re paid to do.
“I want to give them a great walk-on, give them everything to sing about, and then when I get up there, perform to the best of my ability so everyone has a great night.”
Bunting added: “We can all turn up on our day and win the World Championship. Unfortunately, there’s only going to be one winner at the end of the day.
“Preparation doesn’t start today – it started last month, to be honest. Mine started at the beginning of the season. I’ve had a great season, up to world number four, playing some of the best darts of my life.
“Like I said, it’s about keeping relaxed, feeling fresh, and going into the Worlds on a massive confidence boost and feeling good.”
