Eric Bristow Trophy winner De Sousa reveals link: “He was the first PDC player I beat”

Jose de Sousa claimed the Grand Slam of Darts on Tuesday night defeating James Wade in the final to claim the Eric Bristow Trophy.

But De Sousa revealed afterwards that he actually has a link to the legendary Crafty Cockney and that they continued to keep in touch.

"Winning the Grand Slam is not only special to me because it is a big tournament, but also because I have the Eric Bristow Trophy in my hands," said De Sousa.

"I played against Eric in Spain in 1997 at an exhibition. He was the first PDC player I beat.

"He was my hero in darts, he won so many things. When I found out I was going to play against him I couldn't believe it.

"We continued to speak for many years after this. He was a friend and a great man. When I played in the World Championship in 2011 he supported me.”

"I dedicate this trophy to all the people who support me and to Eric. To have my name on this trophy with the likes of Michael van Gerwen and Raymond van Barneveld guys is unbelievable. It feels like a dream I will wake up from."