MENSUR SULJOVIC is drawing on happy memories as he defends his Paddy Power Champions League of Darts title in Brighton this weekend.
Suljovic claimed his first televised title with a memorable 11-9 victory over Gary Anderson in last year's Champions League final in Cardiff, and the Austrian crowd favourite will begin his title defence at The Brighton Centre on Saturday.
The world number six looked back fondly on his emotional triumph 12 months ago and is hoping to make another tilt for the £100,000 star prize this time around.
I’m in the mix to be classed as one of the best players in the world
"The best memory was the moment that final double 14 went in to win the tournament," said Suljovic, who was making his Champions League debut in 2017.
"It was a fantastic moment for me, if you watch the replay of that moment it was perfect. I couldn’t believe it that I'd won such a big event on my favourite double!
"At the moment, I’m in the mix to be classed as one of the best players in the world, but I’m always looking for improvement with every tournament.
"Winning the Champions League last year gave me confidence, winning a TV title always gives you belief you can achieve more."
The Premier League star doubled his televised title tally at the German Darts Masters in May before going agonisingly close to World Matchplay glory in July, losing out to Anderson 21-19 in a replay of the 2017 Champions League final.
Suljovic will look to build on his success over the last two years as he takes on World Champion Rob Cross in his opening game of the weekend.
"After the World Matchplay it didn’t take long to get over losing the final," Suljovic added.
"I gained confidence from my performance in Blackpool and now I want to continue playing like this and win more trophies.
"The feeling I get when the fans sing my name is amazing. It helps a lot too and I’m really grateful for the reaction I get, not just on stage but also meeting the fans when I’m out and about."
Tickets for the Unibet Champions League of Darts are available through The Brighton Centre Box Office.
Paddy Power Champions League of Darts
Schedule of Play
Saturday September 22
Afternoon Session (1.15pm) – BBC1
4x Group Matches
Rob Cross v Mensur Suljovic (B)
Peter Wright v Simon Whitlock (B)
Gary Anderson v Daryl Gurney (A)
Michael van Gerwen v Dave Chisnall (A)
Evening Session (6.30pm) – BBC2
4x Group Matches
Sunday September 23
Afternoon Session (1pm) – BBC2
4x Group Matches
Evening Session (6.30pm) – BBC2
Semi-Finals & Final