Michael Smith is making a determined comeback at the Grand Slam of Darts while managing arthritis. His next match will be against fellow Premier League player Chris Dobey in the last 16. Despite battling health issues, Smith displayed resilience by advancing from a demanding Group A, securing wins over Nathan Aspinall and Alex Spellman.
Smith’s Journey Back to the Grand Slam
Smith’s return to competitive darts is noteworthy. He had to qualify for this tournament, which previously marked the start of his major victories in 2022. This year, he faced challenges as injuries required specialized equipment to help him cope with pain in his wrists, ankles, and shoulders.
Emotional Wins and Daily Struggles
After his opening victory against Aspinall, Smith expressed his emotions in a post-match interview. He acknowledges the hard work paying off as he progresses in the tournament. “I just want to be ready for the Worlds and I just want to be happy again playing darts,” he shared. Smith is focused on the upcoming World Darts Championship while navigating his ongoing health issues.
Innovative Pain Management Techniques
- Smith relies on a combination of icing and heating plates for pain relief.
- His routine includes alternating temperatures to alleviate arthritic discomfort.
- He spends up to an hour managing pain before matches.
Smith noted, “It’s arthritis, it’s not going away. I’ve got arthritis in my left foot, severe in the right, and just normal in the right wrist.” His commitment to the sport involves enduring discomfort in hopes of returning to previous form.
Motivation and Inspiration
For Smith, his children motivate him to keep pushing forward. They both play rugby and darts, serving as a reminder of the importance of resilience. “What example would I set if I quit?” he asked rhetorically, highlighting that persistence is crucial.
Smith reflected on his career, revealing that past setbacks have reignited his competitive spirit. Even after significant struggles, he expresses a burning desire to reclaim his place on the big stage.
Upcoming Matches
This Wednesday, November 12, at 7 PM, the second round will see matches including:
- Gerwyn Price vs. Martin Schindler
- Luke Woodhouse vs. Ricky Evans
- Luke Humphries vs. Jurjen van der Velde
- Chris Dobey vs. Michael Smith
Fans can catch the action live on Sky Sports.
