"I've already proven I can win a major, so I don't have to take that hurdle again" - Andrew Gilding dreams of new UK Open triumph

The UK Open gets underway today at Butlin's Minehead Resort. Andrew Gilding starts the tournament as the defending champion, after he surprisingly beat Michael van Gerwen 11-10 in the final last year.

Gilding had also reached the semi-finals of this PDC major in 2015. "I really don't know what it is about this tournament that brings out the best in me," said the 53-year-old Englishman, who hopes to become the fourth player ever to successfully defend his title at the UK Open. Previously, Phil Taylor, Raymond van Barneveld and Michael van Gerwen accomplished that feat.

"It was incredible last year. I wasn't very confident in my form, so to take the title was a dream come true. It still feels very surreal. People say to me, 'No one can ever take that away from you.' The trophy is still next to me in the living room!"

Gilding is looking forward to being announced as reigning champion by Master of Ceremonies John McDonald. "It will be a new experience for me as reigning champion, but hopefully that experience can help me as I move into the later stages of the tournament.

"I've proven that I can win a major, so I don't have to face that hurdle again. It can make sure I can play in exciting matches with a little extra confidence."