"The Matchplay is still a long shot at the moment": Kim Huybrechts keeps his feet on the ground as he chases major tournament spots

Kim Huybrechts has taken an important step in his pursuit of qualification for the major televised tournaments at the Austrian Darts Open. The Belgian defeated Karel Sedlacek 6-3 in the first round, securing not only a valuable sporting victory but also a result that could prove crucial in the race for the World Matchplay.

Huybrechts knew beforehand just how important the clash with Sedlacek was, as the Czech player was sitting just above him in the qualification race. Still, he tried to put that completely out of his mind during the match at the Austrian Darts Open.

“Well, just before the game you know it. When you analyse draws and tournaments, you know it’s important, but when you’re on that stage and playing the game, you don’t think about it," he said post match to Oche. "Afterwards, I know it was important as well, but it never crossed my mind during the game. I just wanted to win the game.”

The 6-3 scoreline ultimately looked a little more comfortable than the match actually was. Sedlacek had chances at doubles in each of the opening five legs but failed to take them. Huybrechts capitalised fully on those misses and gradually grew into the match. In the closing stages, he left himself perfectly placed with a 180 before sealing the victory on double 18.

For Huybrechts, the win is confirmation of how much his situation has changed. At the start of the year, his goal was clear and modest: retain his Tour Card. Now, much bigger tournaments are suddenly within reach. “Yeah, it’s a massive change in my thoughts. In January, me, my management and coach Eric Clarys only had one goal, and that was keeping the Tour Card.

“Three months later, you’ve suddenly got a couple of extra goals, playing the Matchplay, playing the Grand Prix, playing the European Championship and playing the Players Championship Finals. I think we’re going to have to have a good meeting and discussion about what the goals are going to be, because the Matchplay is still a long shot at the moment."

That is why Huybrechts wants to sit down with his team again soon. “I’m not going to think about it too much, but it would be awesome if I qualify because it definitely wasn’t on my shortlist in January.” Later on Saturday afternoon, Huybrechts will return to action in Graz, where he faces Chris Dobey for a place in the last 16.