Corey Cadby will make his UK Open debut on Friday evening. The former world youth champion ended a strong UK Open Qualifiers campaign in fourth place, winning UK Open Qualifier 5 on the way.
After winning his Tour Card on the first day of the Q-School in January, Cadby has recorded some impressive results on the Pro Tour. Besides winning his first ranking event, he also reached one Players Championship final and managed to beat top 16 stars including Rob Cross, Michael Smith, Simon Whitlock, Kim Huybrechts, Gary Anderson and Ian White. Ahead of his UK Open debut, 'King' Cadby looks forward to the 'FA Cup of Darts' in an
interview with . The 22-year-old agrees that winning his maiden PDC title has helped him to settle on the PDC Tour. ''I didn't expect to reach two finals. But, in a way, I do know what I'm capable of. I know I can match it with the best. It has made me settle and realise I ain't just here to make up the numbers.'' The Auckland Darts Masters finalist opted not to challenge for a Tour Card in 2017, instead focusing on family life. Now he has made the plunge, Cadby reckons he has gone professional at the right time. ''I do see my victory at the UK Open Qualifier as I have made the right choice," he said. "With having a family to play for, knowing this is how to support them and give them everything they need. I do feel it's a good start to my professional career.''
"It doesn't bother me, who I play"
The Tasmania ace will enter the UK Open in round three, after sealing a top-32 ranking at the UK Open Qualifiers. This means he will not know his opponent before the round three draw, which will be conducted after the second round on Friday afternoon. Cadby says that won't disturb his preparation for this tournament. He is looking to upset the natural order in Minehead, as he promises to turn on his A-game.
''I'm really looking forward to the UK Open. It doesn't bother me, who I play, at all. I prefer to play on TV, because I know my kids and the rest of my family will be watching. I know I will turn on my A-game. And as always, looking to cause damage.''
The ambitious youngster, dubbed the 'King', is working hard to achieve his goals this season. He is aiming to play at all televised tournaments this year. Cadby also set his sights on a top 32 spot after this season. He also says he doesn't feel pressure from other people to perform. It may even work the other way.
''My plans for this year would be to get myself in the top 32, but also try and get in all the televised tournaments. But most of all, throw good darts.''
''There is always going to be pressure on you, but it's only myself who can deal with it. I don't really feel the pressure. I feel it works the other way towards the other player, as no one wants to lose.''