Mensur Suljovic, a prominent figure in the darts world, is advocating for a new venue for the PDC World Darts Championship. As an accomplished player, Suljovic has won major titles, including the Champions League of Darts in 2017. Ahead of his upcoming participation in December’s championship, he reflects on his journey and the future of the sport.
Reflection on a Challenging Year
During an interview with Laola1.at, Suljovic candidly shared insights about his performance this year. He acknowledged starting strong but noted a decline due to health issues. “I hope to be in top shape by 2026,” he stated. He plans to compete in more European Tour events next year, viewing them as essential for achieving success in larger tournaments.
Pressure of the World Championship
Having participated in the PDC World Championships for almost two decades, Suljovic is familiar with the immense pressure that accompanies the event. He described the experience as reminiscent of being a novice again, having no expectations for this year’s tournament. “I have nothing to lose and nothing to defend,” he expressed. This marks his 17th appearance, with only two missed championships since his debut in 2008.
Past Memories and Future Aspirations
Recalling his first World Championship, Suljovic highlighted a memorable match against Andy Smith. Although he lost to John Part, who later became the World Champion, the experience remains one of his favorites. He contrasted the heightened expectations of earlier years to his current mindset, where he approaches the competition with a sense of freedom.
Proposing a New Venue
Suljovic has strong opinions regarding the future of the World Championship. He believes the tournament could benefit from a larger venue. Currently held at Alexandra Palace, which seats only 3,000 spectators, he feels this limitation prevents many fans from attending. “Germany would be a good place for the World Championship,” he suggested, noting the country’s contribution to darts.
The Role of Germany in Darts
He credited figures such as Werner von Moltke and Barry Hearn for advancing the sport in Germany and beyond. Despite being open to alternate locations, Suljovic argued that any venue shift should prioritize a larger space, possibly exploring sites outside of England while maintaining some traditional ties.
The Landscape of Darts in Austria
Discussing Austria’s position in the darts community, Suljovic pointed out a lack of sponsorship and recognition for the sport. He stated, “We have a lot of good darts players, but sponsors are hesitant.” Many professionals find support challenging, which hampers their ability to compete effectively.
Future Endeavors Beyond Competition
Looking ahead, Suljovic envisions opening a darts academy after his playing career. He emphasized the need for more local tournaments, suggesting that the success of recent events in places like Schwechat demonstrates significant potential. “Everything is sold out; why not expand like in Germany?” he asked.
Emotional Moments and Calls for Governance
On a personal note, Suljovic expressed his feelings regarding his defeat to Fallon Sherrock at the 2020 World Cup. He viewed it as one of his most significant losses, underscoring the need for players to manage audience pressure. He also addressed the doping suspension of Rusty-Jake Rodriguez, advocating for clearer and consistent rules in the sport.
Conclusion
Mensur Suljovic’s contributions to darts extend beyond his performance. His call for a new venue for the PDC World Darts Championship highlights his commitment to growing the sport. As he prepares for his next tournament, his focus remains on the future of darts in Austria and Europe.
