Reinvigorated Henderson determined to return to Pro Tour: “I feel as though I’ve got ten, twelve years left in me"

Losing his tour card at the end of 2022 was a bitter blow to John Henderson and after finding himself unable to immediately return to the Pro Tour by way of Q-School, the Scot found himself out of love with the sport. Now though, having regained some form on the Challenge Tour, a revitalised Hendo is determined to get back to the top echelons of darts.

“When I lost my Tour Card I wasn’t sure where my darts career was going, but I’m playing every weekend,” the 49-year-old told the Darts Show podcast. “I’ve been playing on the Challenge Tour and then obviously we’re getting the opportunity to play on the European Tour. I’ve qualified for two of the first five events so I will take that."

"It has been hectic, but I’m enjoying it again. I’m going in the right direction. I am playing well, I’m happy with my game and long may it continue."

Less than two years ago, Henderson was on top of the world having being crowned World Cup of Darts champion alongside Peter Wright for Scotland. His most recent title win, a challenger event in Halle where he defeated Ron Meulenkamp in the final may have been smaller in scale but meant just as much.

“I had never won a PDC title apart from the World Cup, so to get that monkey off my back was great. Hopefully it will be the first of many titles," says Henderson. "The standard on the Challenge Tour is fantastic. You have to be on your toes from round one. Even at Qualifying School – the standard was very high. It was so hard."

"I feel as though I’ve got ten, twelve years left in me, because I’m back enjoying it again," he continues. “I’ve got a spring in my step again, and hopefully losing my Tour Card gives me the kick up the backside that I needed. I’m putting in the effort at home. I am using every competition as practice and hopefully I can earn my Tour Card back through the Challenge Tour. That’s the plan anyway!"