With the perennial tag of nearly man due to reaching so many major finals without sealing a title, Michael Smith has been in some of the best form in his career as he hunts down that elusive crown.
Back-to-back ProTours, a European Tour, a Premier League night and the US Darts Masters are among his haul this season and heading into the Nordic Darts Masters, he spoke about the effect of this winning form.
“Over the last three weeks I have won five events out of six – it’s getting there. I’m playing well and picking up titles,” said Smith.
“It’s unreal the way everything has swung in my favour. Since I won the last night of the Premier League, my confidence has grown and grown.
“I have had to get over heartbreak for the last three years, losing so many finals.
“Now that I’m making finals each week and winning them – and the way I’m winning them – is massive for my confidence and self-belief.”