Michael Smith tells St Helens his wish after winning World Darts Championship

04 January 2023 , 10:25

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Michael Smith tells St Helens his wish after winning World Darts Championship

Darts star Michael Smith has enjoyed a stunning last few months, having followed up his Grand Slam of Darts victory in November with a magnificent first ever World Championship title in January.

In a brilliant final that will go down as one of the best in the sport's history, Smith triumphed over three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen to win 7-4. 'Bully Boy' is a keen supporter of his hometown rugby league side St Helens and wants to celebrate his success with his beloved Saints.

Smith has watched St Helens win four consecutive Super League Grand finals and says he "would love" to bring his Grand Slam of Darts and World Darts Championship titles to Langtree Park and celebrate alongside St Helens' Super League trophy.

He tweeted: "One thing I really want to do and would love to do. Is stand on the half way line with the boys with the league leaders and grand final trophy on there side and the gsod [Grand Slam of Darts] and world champs on mine with that mighty red V in background @Saints1890"

And St Helens quickly responded to Smith, simply replying: "We will make it happen!" Smith's cousin Paige Travis plays for St Helens' women's team and they shared a clip of her congratulating the darts star on his success alongside her teammates.

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In the clip, Travis shouts: "Well done Mikey, you're the world champion!" To which Smith replied: "No better feeling then hearing my baby cousin shout that out".

Michael Smith celebrates his World Darts Championship victory (PA)

Smith described his win as his 'greatest ever sporting memory' and says he now wants to "take over the sport" and replicate Van Gerwen's success. "My two best achievements are sat over there, my two kids," Smith told Sky Sports.

"As a sporting memory it's the greatest ever, and I don't think that will ever be topped. Even if I win a second, it will never top the way I've just felt then.

"I told you when I got the Grand Slam, I will be a world champion and I want to do what this man [Van Gerwen] has done. I want to take over the sport but he is still here."

Matthew Cooper