World Darts Championship: Michael Smith Receives Cortisone Injections for Ankle and Wrist Issues Before Lisa Ashton Clash
Michael Smith, the 2023 World Darts Champion, is preparing to face Lisa Ashton at the World Darts Championship amid health concerns. He has been managing significant ankle and wrist pain, requiring cortisone injections to alleviate his discomfort and enhance his performance.
Health Challenges Ahead of Championship
The 35-year-old Smith, known as “Bully Boy,” has been grappling with a serious ankle injury and arthritis in his wrist, stemming from a break he sustained at age 19. He underwent treatments last Thursday, receiving cortisone injections in his ankle joints and wrist, while opting against additional injections to avoid complications. Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism about his condition.
Smith’s Recovery Journey
Smith shared his journey back to fitness, noting that he is finally able to practice without an ankle support. He reported feeling more fluid in his movements and completed an extended practice session for the first time this year. “Every day the intensity is increasing, so it feels like I’m getting back to where I used to be,” he stated.
Path to the World Darts Championship
- Round 1: Lisa Ashton
- Round 2: Niels Zonneveld
- Round 3: Jonny Clayton
- Last 16: Ross Smith or Dave Chisnall
- Quarter-finals: Stephen Bunting
- Semi-finals: Luke Littler
- Final: Contenders include Luke Humphries, Michael van Gerwen, Danny Noppert, or Nathan Aspinall
Facing Lisa Ashton
The matchup against Ashton is significant, with both players having formidable reputations in darts. Smith commented, “I’m playing Lisa plus 3,000 people.” He acknowledged Ashton’s scoring ability while expressing confidence in his game. He aims to be in peak condition for the clash, especially with the excitement surrounding the tournament’s move to the larger Great Hall at Alexandra Palace next year.
Future of the World Darts Championship
Smith voiced enthusiasm about the upcoming relocation of the championship venue, which aims to accommodate more fans. The tournament is set to remain at the new location until at least 2031, promising a vibrant atmosphere for future competitions.
Expert Predictions
Sports analyst Laura Turner noted the unpredictability of Smith’s form, emphasizing that the outcome heavily depends on which version of him shows up. She recognized Ashton’s recent confidence and performance levels, hinting at the possibility of an upset.
As the World Darts Championship approaches, all eyes will be on Smith and Ashton, with both competitors aiming for a strong showing.
