Van Barneveld explains decision to make PDC comeback in 2021: "It’s very simple, I miss it terribly"

Raymond van Barneveld revealed his intention to make a comeback to the PDC Tour in 2021 on Wednesday with the five-time World Champion set for Q-School in January only 12 months on from 'retiring' from the sport after defeat to Darin Young at the World Championship.

Van Barneveld said that while it was the right decision to retire initially, he missed competitive action and he believes he is in a different head space than the last few years.

"It’s very simple. I miss it. I miss it terribly,” Van Barneveld told RTL News.

“I think the decision [to retire] was the right one, but I have now had a lot of time to think about it. Then I realised I miss it terribly.

“I now have a unique opportunity to realise my dream and to work in a team. I think that is the solution for me.

“Because I haven’t been myself for the past two or three years, you don’t always make the right decisions.

“Your head is haunted and you’re a nightmare for everyone. But that’s different now. I’m looking forward to it.

It isn't just a one shot deal though for Van Barneveld with the doyen of Dutch darts putting three years into this.

“I signed for three years, so we have the chance to at least get a tour card for three years. If I want to get my tour card, I will have to do my best.”