ROB CROSS has credited a change in lifestyle to his recent up-turn in form after claiming his first PDC title since being crowned World Champion last weekend.
The world number three beat Ian White 6-4 in the final of Players Championship 13 in Wigan on Saturday and backed it up by reaching the final of Players Championship 14 the following day.
Cross has experienced a whirlwind six months since his William Hill World Championship triumph, struggling to find his 2017 consistency despite reaching the Unibet Premier League Play-Offs, but the Hastings thrower has now made changes off the oche.
“The last six months have been the most difficult part for me since I turned pro,” said Cross, who made his England debut at the Betway World Cup of Darts earlier this month.
“I’ve had a lot of learning to do since I won the Worlds, I’ve been spending a lot less time at home but, of course, it’s a great situation to be in.
“For the last five months I’ve felt low on energy and it was affecting my game but now I’ve changed my diet and I’m feeling a lot better for it.
“The Premier League was a new experience for me and I didn’t manage my time well during that period, so I’ve dedicated more time to fitness and spending quality time with my family.”
Saturday’s Players Championship victory saw Cross return to the winner’s circle at a ProTour event for the first time since October 2017.
The 28-year-old is now determined to get back into the habit of winning on a regular basis, starting with a first ever European Tour title in either Copenhagen or Hamburg over the next two weekends.
“Last weekend brought back memories of how to win again,” added Cross.
“People having been saying I’m a one-hit wonder and I could’ve failed to win anything all year so it’s nice to get that first win.
“I feel brand new and refreshed when I play and my injury is almost fully healed now.
“I believe in myself again and, even though I still don’t think I’m playing as well as I can, I’m feeling a lot more like myself and that I can achieve great things again.
“Hopefully I can keep improving and get the rewards by picking up more titles – winning everything over the next four or five months would be nice!”
Cross will make his World Series of Darts debut at the William Hill US Darts Masters in Las Vegas, before making a second appearance at the BetVictor World Matchplay later in the month, with Cross’ sights firmly set on glory in Blackpool.
“Playing at the World Matchplay last year was an amazing experience,” said Cross.
“When you walk out into the venue it feels like a special place, even when you’re not playing.
“The crowd are brilliant and that is definitely a tournament I would love to win and will be doing everything I can to lift that trophy.”
Watch Rob in action at the 2018 BetVictor World Matchplay at the famous Winter Gardens in Blackpool, taking place from July 21-29. Buy tickets HERE.
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