Portela on mental health battle after brilliant Beaton win: "I went to some really dark places"

PDC
Wednesday, 16 December 2020 at 11:00
WLDDARTS RD1 PORTELA1 2000

Diogo Portela produced a stunning win over Steve Beaton on the opening night of action at the PDC World Darts Championship winning 3-0 in straight sets.

Portela was crying and visibly emotional on the stage afterwards and speaking afterwards during the post match press conference, the meaning of the match after a difficult few months became apparent.

"I got really close against Ron Meulenkamp two years ago but this year it was even more special because I went to some really dark places. I thought about quitting darts, I wasn't even supposed to play here. It's just an invitation which I'm really glad from the PDC for, I really appreciate it. I really want to make darts big in South America," said Portela post match.

"What I've been through this year, I don't wish for my worst enemy. I had my daughter Diana and she was born with a condition in her stomach and she had to go through surgery. Ariana (his wife) after that had post natal depression as well, I had to handle everything and when everything was finished it kind of hit me. I was thinking of killing myself."

"I messaged Alan Warriner and I said I need help and Alan introduced me to Sporting Chance and I've been in therapy for two to three months and they've helped me a lot. I just want to tell everyone the sooner you open up the better."

claps 1visitors 294

Just in

Popular news