Cullen opens up on shock operation before World Grand Prix exit

JOE CULLEN says gallbladder surgery has added to his struggles during a difficult season.

The world No30 revealed he had the troublesome organ removed before suffering a 2-1 World Grand Prix defeat to James Wade in round one of the World Grand Prix.

Cullen, 37, admitted he is still feeling the effects of the operation and does not know what to expect from one match to the next.

He told Sky Sports: “I think the thing with me this year is I am not sure how I will play from game to game, which is frustrating as a darts player.

“That has been one frustration I have had to live with this year.

“I have been working hard and trying to get myself ready for the tournaments.

“I planned to get my gallbladder out. Never had an operation. So I wasn’t thrilled about going.

“It was just one of those things. It’s still a little bit sore in places. But I have had a throw and a practice and I feel okay.”

The Bradford thrower has impressed on the ProTour this campaign, reaching the Players Championship Eight final before losing 8-4 to Wessel Nijman.

Cullen also claimed TWO ProTour titles in 2025, beating Gian van Veen and Gerwyn Price, who both currently sit inside the world’s top four on the Order of Merit.

But Cullen has struggled to replicate that form on the Euro Tour and major stage, and is yet to reach a quarter-final in either across the last two seasons.