Jules van Dongen quickly puts World Championship defeat in perspective: ''My family is healthy, that is much more important than winning''

Jules van Dongen could crown his debut at the World Darts Championship with a victory on Saturday afternoon. The Dutch American was defeated 3-1 in sets by Darren Penhall.

''He was better, I can't make more of it...,'' Van Dongen spoke realistically afterwards for Viaplay's camera. ''I did get chances, but then I still felt the pressure. That's then the experience that I miss anyway. At 1-1 I felt I was better, but after that the game went his way.''

Despite the defeat, 'The Dutch Dragon' was able to enjoy the atmosphere at Alexandra Palace and quickly put his disappointment in a different perspective. ''I did enjoy it. I'm proud to have been here. Of course it's hard just after a match like that, but I'm healthy, my family is healthy and we're having a good time here. That's much more important than winning.''

Van Dongen needed to have reached the quarterfinals at the World Darts Championship to extend his Tour Card. After two years, he failed to secure a spot in the top 64, losing his PDC Tour Card. ''I'm going to try to get that back at the Q-School,'' he sounds determined. ''I'm totally going for it. I'm only two years into it and I still have a lot to learn,'' said Van Dongen, who had previously indicated he would give his darts career at least five years of opportunity.