Michael Smith is eager to reclaim his World Championship title at the Paddy Power World Darts Championship, reigniting his competitive drive after a challenging year. Having previously defeated Kevin Doets in a dramatic second-round clash last year, Smith will face him again tonight in the second round, determined to regain the Sid Waddell Trophy. The 34-year-old’s motivation has been fueled by his 2023 World Championship victory over Michael van Gerwen, where he also hit a legendary nine-darter. Despite being the former world number one, he now faces the pressure of wanting to reassert himself as the top player, following Luke Humphries’ recent World Championship win.

Smith has had a mixed year since his 2023 World Championship triumph, with his only televised title being a World Cup victory with Luke Humphries. However, he’s acknowledged his desire for more success, aiming to recapture the determination and fight that led him to his first World Championship win. Although his performance in recent major tournaments has been inconsistent, Smith remains optimistic about his future, citing his resilience in overcoming tough periods. As he prepares for his 17th season with the PDC, Smith is determined to pick up more major titles and solidify his legacy in the sport, with the World Championship serving as his ultimate goal.

Source: PDCTV
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