“I packed in absolutely everything and gave my life to the game” – William O'Connor determined to turn full-time gamble into major breakthrough

William O'Connor admitted he was far from satisfied with his performance after battling through to the second round of the 2026 Austrian Darts Open on Friday afternoon, but the Irishman made clear that 2026 represents a far bigger mission than one single result in Graz.

O'Connor defeated Anton Ostlund 6-3 in a scrappy but hard-earned opening round clash, averaging 94.16 and producing key checkouts at important moments to keep control of the tie.

The Irishman opened the match in style with a brilliant 126 checkout to immediately break throw and later recovered after Ostlund threatened a comeback midway through the contest. A 77 finish helped O'Connor restore his advantage at 3-1, before another break on double 20 moved him into a commanding 4-2 lead.

Even after missed darts prevented him from immediately closing out the match, O'Connor eventually pinned double 10 to finally get over the line. “I suppose it was important enough in the context of the game,” O'Connor told Dartsnews.com when asked about the opening 126 finish. “It was important. I started slow, didn’t really improve much better, but I’m glad to get the win in the end.”

While the performance itself may not have fully satisfied him, O'Connor made clear afterwards that the bigger picture around his career has changed dramatically over the last 18 months.

The 39-year-old explained that he has now committed fully to darts in pursuit of regular major appearances and a higher world ranking. “It’s very important,” O'Connor replied when discussing the importance of the 2026 season. “I set myself goals last year when I went completely full time.”

“I packed in absolutely everything and I gave my life to the game,” he added. “This year is very important. I need to qualify for every one of the big majors and I need to do myself justice.”

That process already appears to be paying off. O'Connor is on course to qualify for the World Matchplay in Blackpool and is also firmly in the hunt for the World Grand Prix later this year.

The Irishman explained that even during more difficult periods earlier in the season, his mindset and commitment towards darts never changed. “Even when it wasn’t going well, it has been my approach,” he said. “It has been my approach for almost 18 months now. I’ve given it my life and it’s got me to where I am. There’s been some ups, some downs, but that’s life. It’s not always going to go accordingly. I’m very happy to be in the position I am and I want to push on now.”

Part of that next step could soon include a complete equipment refresh. O'Connor revealed he was already practising with new gear ahead of Friday’s match in Graz, with new darts currently in production. “Yes, it’s on my mind a little bit,” he explained when asked about possible equipment changes. “Before the game I was actually practising with new equipment. Not new darts just yet, but we have them in production. Really big stuff for anyone that’s interested. Some beautiful darts coming. I can’t wait to get them.”

The Irishman laughed as he added: “Hopefully they like the trebles and doubles as much as I like them.”

Asked how comfortable he generally feels switching to new barrels, O'Connor admitted the real answer will only come once they are fully in play on the professional stage. “We’ll find out soon,” he smiled.

What is clear already, however, is the confidence he has gained from the backing around him. “Thankfully Shot have come on board now as well and supported me all the way,” O'Connor explained earlier in the interview. “I think I can hit that next level.”

Later, he added: “They’re really behind me. They’re doing everything they can to get me to the next level and I can’t wait. I really can’t wait.”

O'Connor was also asked about the growing discussion surrounding Ireland’s potential World Cup of Darts partnership following Mickey Mansell's switch to competing under the Irish flag.

The veteran made clear he has no issue with players from Northern Ireland representing the Republic setup. “Mickey’s always been Irish,” O'Connor explained. “In Ireland, under the Good Friday Agreement, you can be seen as Irish, British, whatever you want.”

He also clarified that Mansell’s links to the Republic setup had not suddenly emerged this season. “It wasn’t just this year,” O'Connor said. “I think Mickey did it a good few years back. I have no issue with anybody wanting to play for Ireland. The way I see it, it’s the island of Ireland. If Daryl Gurney and Josh Rock want to represent the whole of Ireland, then best of luck to them. I want the two best players to represent the whole of Ireland.”

For now though, O'Connor’s own focus remains fixed on ensuring his full-time gamble continues moving in the right direction. Friday’s win in Graz may not have been spectacular, but it was another important step in a season carrying huge importance for the Irishman.