Whitlock reveals pre-Grand Slam injury but no excuses given: "I've played with a broken ankle before and got to a World Championship semi-final"

Simon Whitlock heads into the Grand Slam of Darts this weekend by virtue of winning the World Cup of Darts with Damon Heta earlier this year.

Whitlock spoke to the Weekly Dartscast in the run up and said he has an injury going into the tournament but that he has had a lot worse in his darting career.

"It's going to be great, I'm going in there with a bit of an injury which doesn't really help me a lot. I've got a bad heel at the moment, I've got bursitis and I'm struggling a bit with that," said Whitlock to the Weekly Dartscast.

"I'm not going to make any excuses. I can still throw darts. I've played with a broken ankle before and won matches with that and got to a World Championship semi-final, so beware of the injured they say."

Speaking of that triumph, he spoke about the emotions of finally sealing the World Cup as well as reaffirming his love for the game.

"It felt like I'd finally won something big, I know it's pairs and it's not as big as some of the majors but I felt like I could retire that sort of feeling. I'm not quitting yet as long as I can keep throwing, I'll keep going."

He will also head into the World Championship next month for the 20th time which is a milestone he didn't know about but one that he hopes to add to.

"20 is amazing, I never would have dreamt that would have happened. Hopefully I can get more than 20. These days I try not to worry about rankings, I'm getting on a bit. I'm 53. I know I haven't got many years left but I'm still enjoying it as much as I ever did and I just don't pressure myself now and look forward to every event I play in."