Smith Energized and Prepared for World Darts Championship Comeback
Michael Smith is excited about returning for his 15th consecutive appearance at the Paddy Power World Darts Championship. This prestigious tournament holds significant meaning for him, especially after winning the championship three years ago. Smith is also the reigning 2022/23 World Champion.
Smith’s Journey in Darts
At 35, Smith made a mark on darts history by claiming the Sid Waddell Trophy. He achieved this milestone after finishing as runner-up in previous championships. One of his most memorable moments came during his victory over Michael van Gerwen, where he famously executed a nine-dart leg, solidifying his status in the sport.
Smith has a special connection with Alexandra Palace, viewing it as a defining venue for success in darts. “It’s always a buzz going back to Ally Pally,” he remarked, reflecting on the emotional impact of the championship venue.
Challenges and Resilience
Despite being crowned World Champion, Smith faced challenges, including dropping to 31st in the world rankings due to injuries in 2025. Nevertheless, he showed promise at the recent Grand Slam of Darts, reaching the quarter-finals and reigniting his competitive spirit.
Smith demonstrated his determination, stating, “You’ve definitely not seen the last of me. I won’t quit until I get what I want.” He is working diligently to regain his form by focusing on scoring and finishing in practice sessions, preparing himself for a strong performance at Ally Pally.
Upcoming Matchup Against Lisa Ashton
In the opening round of the championship, Smith is set to compete against Women’s World Matchplay champion, Lisa Ashton. Their previous encounter resulted in a 5-3 victory for Smith during the 2022 Grand Slam. Ashton, a crowd favorite, poses a formidable challenge, as seen in her narrow loss to Gian van Veen in the same event.
- Opponent: Lisa Ashton
- Previous Match Result: Smith won 5-3 at the 2022 Grand Slam
- Ashton’s Recent Performance: Lost 5-4 to Gian van Veen
Despite the challenge, Smith remains confident and looks forward to the matchup. “I know I’ve got the game and the scoring power,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of staying focused and managing emotions during the match.
Looking Ahead
Smith is keen to demonstrate his skills at the world championship and is committed to making a comeback. “There’s nothing stopping me from coming back,” he added. With the right mindset and preparation, he hopes to showcase his talent and aim for another championship victory at Ally Pally.
