Smith on World Series omission: “It does hurt because I’ve been overlooked by people that, in my mind, are not even better than me”

Michael Smith has been left out of both lineups for the US and Nordic Darts Masters in the coming months and has admitted he is ‘hurt’ by the omission.

Smith himself knew for certain events that he would not be included; but thought at least New York would happen.

He added that from his perspective he doesn’t believe those involved; for the most part deserve their place compared to him.

“Me and the Mrs had things planned for where we could go in New York,” Smith told Live Darts.

“I didn’t get picked for that; so that was a big kick in the you know what.

“Denmark was the same thing. I’ve been there a few times; it’s a nice place but it’s not for me.

“Germany [German Masters], I know it hasn’t been released; but I know I’m not getting in because [Gabriel] Clemens got to the final last year, he’s got to be in it so I know I’m not getting in.

“The only thing I’ve got to look forward to is Australia, but if I got in to the Australian events I’d have to take my kids and my Mrs for the three weeks; that’s going to be a pain in the backside!”

“I’m not fussed if I don’t get in them, it does hurt because I’ve been overlooked by people that, in my mind, are not even better than me,” he added.

“I knew when I play in TV events that I can turn up whenever I want.

“I do play sloppy games; but I do still win them and then I’ll turn up the game after.

“Barry [Hearn] always says it’s going to earn people money; but it’s not, it’s costing me a lot of money not playing in them.

“Things happen for a reason and I’ve got to step up now and make sure I start this year and finish this year strongly and make sure I’m in the top four and guaranteed to be in everything for next year.”