Van Barneveld set to celebrate landmark World Darts Championship: "It will be 25 years since I won my first World title"

As well as the resurgence shown at the Grand Slam of Darts, Raymond van Barneveld also heads into the Alexandra Palace this year for his 30th time over both codes and 25 years since winning his first World title.

Van Barneveld lauded the sport in an interview with the PDC and said it is one which ultimately 'changed' his life and that he will celebrate.

“30 World Championships, wow! This sport has changed my life,” reflected Van Barneveld.

“When I won the 1998 World Championship, I thought this would maybe last for three to five years, but it opened doors for me everywhere.

“In January, it will be 25 years since I won my first world title. I think we’re going to open a bottle of champagne and celebrate!”

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Albeit with the business head on first with Ryan Meikle or four-time Women’s World Champion Lisa Ashton to come first and he believes he did the right thing in retiring and then returning refreshed and re-energised.

“It’s always great to be back at the most important tournament in the world,” added Van Barneveld.

“The World Championship is the big one. This is the one you want to win. You want to perform well.

“You need to have that belief and that’s why I often cannot handle defeat very well, because I know what my dreams and my goals are, and when you don’t achieve them, it’s hard to deal with.

“Darts will always be the love of my life and I think I did the right thing in taking a year out and regrouping.

“I’m in the top 32 now, and I’m proud of myself. I am really happy, and if you feel happy, then anything is possible.”

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A big rival over the years was Phil Taylor and he spoke about receiving texts off the 16-time champion and support which he appreciates.

“I have played some brilliant matches here against Michael and Phil, and Phil is supporting me big time,” continued Van Barneveld.

“He was texting me every day at the Grand Slam, and he doesn’t need to do that, because he’s retired. It was very kind of him and I really appreciated that.

“After retiring I had to start from scratch and keep building. Winning this title again would be such a huge victory for myself, and I cannot describe how happy it would make me.”