O’CONNOR SACRIFICES EVERYTHING FOR DARTS DREAM

WILLIAM O’CONNOR admits this season is crucial after giving up everything to commit to darts full-time.

The Irish ace booked his place in round two of the Austrian Darts Open with a 6-3 victory over Anton Ostlund, averaging 94.16 and producing a stunning 126 checkout on his way to victory. 

The Magpie has made a steady start to the campaign, reaching the quarter-finals of Players Championship 11 and the third round of the German Darts Grand Prix. 

But O’Connor admits there is added pressure after deciding to go all-in on his sporting career at the oche.

He told Oche180: “It’s very important. I set myself goals last year when I went completely full-time. I packed in everything and I gave my life to the game. 

“This year is very important. I need to qualify for every one of the big majors and I need to do myself justice. 

“Thankfully Shot have come on board as well and have supported me all the way. I think I can hit the next level.” 

O’Connor also revealed he is preparing for a major equipment switch, with new darts currently in production. 

He added: “It’s on my mind a little bit. Before the game I was practising with new equipment — not new darts just yet.

“But we have them in production. Really big stuff for anyone that is interested, there’s some beautiful darts coming. I can’t wait to get them. 

“Hopefully they like the trebles and doubles as much as I like them.” 

O’Connor returns to action on Saturday in Graz and will face former world champion Rob Cross for a place in the last 16.