Diogo Portela opens up on and off the oche struggles ahead of Ally Pally return: "Darts wasn't my priority due to my mental health"

Diogo Portela is making an awaited return to the World Darts Championships where he will face Cameron Menzies in his first match. Portela spoke to 'Tungsten Tales' about issues on and off the oche and his excitement ahead of his time at Ally Pally.

The Brazilian has played at the Palace before and he is nothing short of excited about his time there in the coming weeks.

“It’s the best tournament in the world, to be honest I think its where I produce my best darts. I love that stage, I’m in a very good session I don’t think I’ve ever played in a session like that before so that’s going to be something new for me. For the first time I am playing someone I’ve already played a few times before, someone that I know and that I’ve beaten before.”

Although he can't wait to play at the World Darts Championships he spoke on how he hasn't been feeling his best over the last couple of years. The 34 year old spoke about the difficulties in his personal life that has had a huge affect on his private life.

Portela spoke in depth about how this last year has gone for him.

“It was a recovery year to be honest because the last two years before this one I had very difficult problems in my personal life and darts wasn’t a priority anymore. This year I have tried to bring my confidence and my technique back to where it was. For moments I have found it but I’m still not quite there. I’d probably have to take another year to find myself again as I’m changing my darts again next year… I’m feeling more stronger than ever mentally.”

“My form still hasn’t matched where I am mentally but even though I’ve had great results… which I will take considering I’ve been out of form and I’ve come back from depressive moments in my life and my mental health wasn’t very good.”

“Maybe I need another year to get back to my best.”