SMITH TAKES DRASTIC STEPS TO REVIVE CAREER
03/02/2026 By Aaron Nijjar
ROSS SMITH has revealed the drastic steps he’s taking to resurrect his career after a “shocking” year on the big stage.
World No.16 Smith failed to reach a quarter-final at any ranked major last campaign, with his best run coming at the UK Open where he exited in round five.
‘Smudger’ also suffered a first-round exit at the World Championship, going down 3-2 to Andreas Harryson.
Smith opened up on the big changes he’s making behind the scenes as he looks to bounce back and make a bigger impact under the bright lights.
He said: “If you have a bad World Championship, you end up with a long break, and obviously I was crap so I’ve had a long break.
“It was lovely. Having all the family around, my partner Samantha’s family as well.
“It really took my mind off everything. It eased the blow a little bit. They took my mind off the darts.
“For me, it’s just about getting back to winning ways. It’s difficult when you’ve basically had two months with hardly any tournaments.
“It’s hard to get into a rhythm. Now it’s tournament after tournament, and it becomes a steamroller again.
“I’m buzzing for the Players Championship next week and the Euro Tour.
“My majors last year were shocking. Absolutely shocking. I think the second round was about as good as it got.
“It’s now about moving forward this year and hopefully having a few runs in majors.
“I’m trying loads of things. Since the World Championship, I’m doing hypnotherapy, working with a sports psychologist, and getting sports massages every week.
“I’m trying to give myself that extra percent. This game is in millimetres.
“I’m putting myself out of my comfort zone and just trying to give myself the best opportunity.”
Smith had a brilliant run on the ProTour picking up two Players Championship titles and reaching the final of the Austrian Open.
The former European Champ returns to action next Monday at the Players Championship One in Hildesheim.
Image by Taylor Lanning.
