"I made it to the last 16 once, so I know what I'm capable of" - Jeffrey de Zwaan ready to seize opportunity after coming through World Championship qualifier

The last chance World Championship qualifying tournament for Tour Card holders took place yesterday in Wigan. One of those successful, was Jeffrey de Zwaan, who managed to secure one of the four available spots at the Ally Pally. This marks a first return to the World Darts Championship since 2021 for the Dutchman.

De Zwaan impressed throughout the World Championship qualifier, averaging 95.97 over his four matches. "I threw very strong except for the first game," De Zwaan opened up to AD.nl. "That first pot I had to get through for a while, but otherwise it looked very good. I played okay all year, but didn't really expect to make it to the World Championship because of that."

"At such a one-day tournament you just have to show it," continues De Zwaan honestly. "If it's a one-time setback you don't make it. I am extremely happy that the hard work has finally paid off."

De Zwaan reached the last sixteen at the World Championship in 2020, but has since struggled and suffered shoulder problems. "In the end, this is another step in the right direction. The prospects are all okay, so let's just see how it goes. My goal is to be able to play pain-free someday. I had my second cortisone shot in my shoulder the other day and am also going to physio. How long will it take me to get fully fit? Well, if only I knew."

With the draw having also now been done, the 28-year-old Dutchman will take on Florian Hempel in the first round at Alexandra Palace, for the winner a duel with the 26th seed Daryl Gurney awaits afterwards. "I have no expectations," said 'The Black Cobra'. "I'm happy to be back there after a long time. I made it to the last 16 once, so I know what I'm capable of. If I go there with no expectations, it can only turn out positively."