"I've given everyone a free ride for eight months. It's time I come back now" - Michael Smith sends out warning to rivals after reaching first World Grand Prix quarter-final

For the first time in his career, Michael Smith has made it into the quarter-finals of the World Grand Prix. The reigning World Champion eased passed Brendan Dolan in his second round tie 3-0.

"I'm over the moon to finally get the win," said a relieved Smith in his post-match interview with Tungsten Tales. "The very first time was Jamie Lewis. I was two sets up, two legs up and going against Brendon I was always thinking about how I've been in this position before, blew it and lost."

Next up for Smith is Andrew Gilding. "I think we both have to win that game. Not only Andrew, I'm not going to give you some clickbait title," he laughs. "I think me and Andrew have both got to raise our game, the fans deserve better."

Since becoming World Champion at the beginning of the year, Smith hasn't struggled for consistency with just a single European Tour, Players Championship and World Series title to show for his efforts.

"The reason it's been a quiet year is because I wanted to celebrate what I've won. I'm not going to shy away from the fact we work so hard in the PDC and it's not only playing darts, we do media, we do everything else," he explains. "This year I've enjoyed myself. I've been partying, I've been all with the family, with the kids now it's time to work again. I've given everyone a free ride for eight months. It's time I come back now."