Van Barneveld starts PDC World Darts Championship full of confidence: "I feel good and don't really fear anyone"

Raymond van Barneveld will begin his 30th World Championship next month. The 55-year-old Dutchman is seeded 32nd after a superb run at the Grand Slam of Darts saw his ranking rise.

"I am quite proud that I get to start the World Darts Championship as 32nd seed," Van Barneveld opened to Viaplay. "When I captured my Tour Card last year it was my goal to be in the top-32 of the world rankings again within two years and so I succeeded in that."

Van Barneveld will meet the winner of the duel between Lisa Ashton and Ryan Meikle in the second round. "I'd rather know my opponent in advance, but it's no different. They are both good players, but I feel good and don't really fear anyone."

Should Barney win his opening match, a duel with Gerwyn Price, still number one in the world, likely awaits. "At the past Grand Slam of Darts I've already beaten him twice, so why not do it again at the World Championship."