Key Highlights
- Michael Smith broke down in tears after a victory at the Grand Slam of Darts.
- The 2023 world champion has faced several health issues throughout his season.
- Smith’s recent performances have been affected by arthritis and other injuries.
- Alexander Aspinall defeated Smith, showcasing his comeback journey.
Michael Smith’s Emotional Comeback at the Grand Slam of Darts
Darting legend Michael Smith, who won the 2023 world championship, had a tearful moment during an interview after securing a comeback victory at the prestigious Grand Slam of Darts. The 45-year-old’s win over Alexander Aspinall in Wolverhampton marked his first TV tournament since March and lifted the weight of a tough season off his shoulders.
“It’s been a long road, it’s been a battle. Just everything; injuries, life itself,” Smith emotionally expressed during an interview with Viaplay. “To get up there, to win that match is a bit emotional, and I’m just glad to get over the line.”
Health Struggles and Comeback
The 2025 world champion’s success from nearly three years ago is in stark contrast to his current battle with health issues. Smith has been dealing with arthritis in his throwing hand, as well as shoulder and foot problems that have dented his attempts to stay among the top challengers of Luke Humphries and Luke Littler.
“I can’t go worse than that,” Smith admitted. “Nathan should have won that 5-0, easy. I’ve seen his reaction walking off and then obviously coming upstairs to the practice room, I’ve seen his reaction again.” He continued, “He should have won that 5-0, easy. I just hung in there, and I got the job done in the end, and I’ll take the win.”
Emotional Outpouring After Victory
The weight of a tough year was lifted from Smith’s shoulders with his victory over Aspinall at WV Active Aldersley. His emotional reaction during an interview underscored the significance of this win. “Winning matches, that’s who I’m about,” he tearfully said. “I’m sick of sitting at home watching people win tournaments, and I’m sat at home. It p***** me off.
S*** happens, I guess.”
When asked if he ever considered quitting darts, Smith replied, “Not once. I think I made the semis of the UK Open with a hole in my leg. ‘I broke both my hands when I was 19, had casts for five months and then when I got them taken off, within two weeks I won my first ProTour at 19. I’m a fighter, that’s it. I’ll be back, don’t worry.”
Looking Ahead
Smith now faces Luke Humphries in a tough test on Sunday before facing American Alex Spellman. The tournament has also seen other notable performances, such as Michael van Gerwen’s thrilling 5-4 win against emerging talent Beau Greaves, with English fans booing the Dutchman as they got behind the young talent.
The emotional journey of Michael Smith continues at the Grand Slam of Darts. His battle with health issues and his determination to return to form make for a compelling story in the world of darts.
