SMITH: THIS SPORT MAKES ME DO "STUPID THINGS"

INJURY-STRICKEN Michael Smith says this sport makes him do “stupid things” as he pulled out of three events.

The former World Champion continues to struggle with a combination of severe osteoarthritis and arthritis in both his throwing wrist and shoulder, along with an ongoing left foot and ankle issue.

Smith, 35, delivered two below par performances in the Players Championships on Monday and Tuesday in Leicester, losing both his opening rounds. Earlier today he lost 6-0 to Rhys Griffin having gone down 6-4 to Tommy Lishman on Monday, averaging just 81.34.

With his injury issues, he has ditched playing in the European Tour 11 and 12 qualifiers for the Hungarian Darts Trophy and Czech Darts Open and the European Darts Open in Leverkusen this weekend.

On his Instagram story, he stated: “I’m not going to apologise like I normally do and say this and that. As my pride always gets in the way as I play this sport to put on a good show for the fans and prove points to my children.

“I’ve always played through the pain and just gone about it but this time pride really got in the way. After my injections Thursday I've completely ignored my body and rushed myself back after not touching the darts for 5 weeks instead of giving myself that break it needs and the work I need to put in.

“But this sport makes me do stupid things because I love it so much.

“But I need to swallow this hard pill and just get back on the practice board and focus on myself and come back when I feel like I’m ready.

“I won’t be playing in the qualifiers tomorrow and won’t be playing Leverkusen on the weekend either.

“My kids break up Friday for 8 weeks and I plan to spend a lot of time with them. Regain the happiness and confidence within myself. And ALOT of practice love you guys.”

Words by Phil Lanning.

Images by TAYLOR LANNING.