INTERVIEW - Suljovic reveals secret behind excellent form after summer break: 'I came back refreshed after a great holiday and that really helped'

The 47-year-old had a great start to September by winning the Austrian Darts Championship in front of his own crowd. Suljovic defeated Michael van Gerwen in the final after a superb comeback.

Suljovic claimed another title two weeks ago, as he won the 26th Players Championship event in Barnsley. It marked a seventh PDC title in his career.

The secret of his recent success? ''It’s been a great couple of months, I had a great holiday with my family, came back refreshed and that really helped'', the Austrian ace told Dartsnews.

The Gentle is generally holding back about his win chances during tournaments. His recent successes, however, have led him to openly dream about a world title. ''Why can’t I be World Champion? I believe I’m one of the best players in the world'', Suljovic replied.

''I’m confident because as I said earlier, I’m playing well, which helps confidence. Plus I won titles close together and I did it the hard way playing great darts which you need at Alexandra Palace.''

The World Grand Prix is the first major tournament in the run-up to the Wolrd Championship. Suljovic immediately awaits a big challenge on Monday evening in the first round, as he drawn world number two Rob Cross.

''Rob is my friend. We practice together at tournaments, so we know each other’s game inside out. In that respect it’s never nice to play against him, but I’ve got a job to do.''

As one of the best finishers in the game, the double-in format should really suit him. His results at the World Grand Prix also show that with three semi-finals in the last four years. The world number nine likes the format and hopes that there will be more of such events on the calendar.

''I like the Grand Prix, the format is great. It’s brutal in the first round because one mistake and it could be all over. That said, I’d love it if there were more of this format'', he added.