SMITH VOWS COMEBACK AFTER WORLD SERIES BLOW
27/08/2025 By Aaron Nijjar
MICHAEL SMITH has vowed to come back stronger after suffering yet another major blow in a nightmare season.
‘Bully Boy’ was beaten 6-4 by Cameron Menzies in the final round of Tuesday’s qualifier for the World Series Finals which sees him miss the major for the first time since 2014.
The two-time major winner now faces the real prospect of sitting out both the World Grand Prix and European Championship, with injuries and illness wrecking his campaign.
St Helens thrower Smith failed to qualify for the World Matchplay last month for the first time since 2013 and saw his run of 60 consecutive appearances at televised ranked events ended.
He wrote on Facebook: “After stepping away for 10 weeks and not throwing anything for that period it was hard with the pain I was going through.
“The arthritis in my right shoulder wrist and foot. But all the injections and medications it was hard to believe but… playing this week with no expectations.”
Former World Champ Smith did show glimpses of improvement by reaching the last 16 at Players Championship 24 on Monday, but his struggles continued as he crashed out in round one of Event 25.
He added: “But being there and making the last 16 then a shocking game Tuesday.
“In the World Series qualifier where I half expected an invite being the runner up last year but (just another number) was a hard pill to swallow but in that last game and missing doubles and certain shots F****** hurts.
“But like I just messaged my kids, I hope everyone takes advantage of me now because I promise it’s not going to be long, and we will be back sat at the head of that table sipping champagne loving live.
“I’m not going to promise you I’ll be back as I’ve told my kids I will and that’s enough. See you in Belgium where I can start to recover more of my game. ❤️💪”
World No. 21 Smith returns to action this weekend on the Euro Tour at the Flanders Darts Trophy in Antwerp.
Image by Taylor Lanning.
