RYDZ SPEAKS OUT ON HEARTBREAK OF LOSING BELOVED GRANDAD

CALLAN RYDZ has admitted he is still "f***ing struggling" six months after the death of his beloved grandad.

World No41 Rydz lost the man he described as "the most important person in my life" in December while he was competing at the PDC World Championship.

Rydz, 27, went on to reach the third round at Alexandra Palace before losing 4-1 to Josh Rock, but has struggled for consistency since and has reached just one ProTour semi-final this year.

In an emotional social media post, Rydz revealed the grief he continues to carry following his grandad's passing.

He wrote: "Not really one to post on here anymore or look for anything but six months ago yesterday I lost the most important person in my life.

"Someone that helped me through everything, a man who was loved by everyone that knew him and since then I haven't been ready to say goodbye.

"A lot of times in hotels when I've been away for darts crying, looking back at memories, the laughs and sometimes you just need your best friend and right now all I genuinely need is my grandad.

"Someone I looked up to, the man I wanted to be."

Rydz also spoke candidly about turning to alcohol as he attempts to cope with the loss.

He added: "Drinking isn't the answer but sometimes helps. Being alone and drinking helps, then feel like s*** the next day and do it all again to forget.

"At the end of the day I can't unsee him in the hospital bed and that's what's hurting me the most.”

The Riot admitted he has tried to carry on as normal on the PDC circuit despite the pain.

He continued: "I've tried my f***ing best to forget and have a laugh with the lads and everyone at ProTour.

"Deep down I'm f****** hurting every single f****** day.

"Some days I don't wanna go. I wanna be alone sat away where no one can see me.

"Long story short I'm f***ing struggling and sometimes the drinks help that...

"If I could openly speak I f***ing would.

"Being shy and not really wanting to talk to people doesn't help...

"I'll get through this tough spell eventually ❤️"

Words: Aaron Nijjar

Image: Taylor Lanning