Patrick Geeraerts on gaining PDC Tour Card: ''It was more of a joke that got out of hand''

Patrick Geeraerts finished fifth on the European Q School Order of Merit with 7 points. The 45-year-old Dutchman was active on the Super League until now, but will be seen on the professional circuit for the next two years. Geeraerts spoke with Darts Actueel about his participation in Q-School and his expectations for the upcoming season.

Patrick Geeraerts became one of the big surprises at the last Q-School. For the Venlo native it was also a surprise that he managed to grab a Tour Card at Q-School. "I didn't expect it at all. It was more like a joke that got out of hand. My friends have been saying for years that I should join, now I finally did.'' Geeraets thinks his success at Q-School has to do with the fact that he felt little pressure to get a Tour Card. ''I didn't expect it myself. Of course I did my best 100 percent and this is what happened.''

Geeraerts will be seen on the professional circuit for the first time, but is certainly not an unknown name in his province of Limburg. He plays competition in Jerry Hendriks' premier league team since 2022 and is active in the Super League, where he and Dart Team Venlo will play in the premier league for the first time this year. Geeraerts explains to Darts Actueel why, despite his good level, he did not go to Q-School earlier. ''I chose my family. Family and work at the time.''

This week the first Pro Tour tournaments will be played in Wigan. ''I think in the beginning I have to test myself. I've never played at such a high level before, so we'll see.''

In early March, Geeraerts will also play at the UK Open, which will be his debut at a major tournament. ''I'm really looking forward to that too.That seems super cool.'' Although reaching the top 64 in the world rankings is a goal, Geeraerts is not putting too much pressure on himself for the upcoming season. ''You have to start at the bottom. Just win a round first and then build on that.''