Joe Cullen is bidding to banish his Cazoo World Darts Championship demons at this year’s Alexandra Palace showpiece, as he bids to cap off the greatest year of his career in style.
Cullen has enjoyed a breakthrough 2022 campaign, sparked by his maiden televised success in January’s season-opening Masters, which saw him edge out Dave Chisnall in a dramatic contest.
The 33-year-old was subsequently rewarded with a Premier League Darts inclusion, and he performed superbly on debut, wiring a dart at double 16 for the title in a thrilling final against Michael van Gerwen.
“It was a well thrown dart – when it left my hand I thought it was in, but it’s a game of fine margins and that proved it that night,” reflected Cullen, who hailed his new-found ability to grind out results.
“I’ve found different ways to win games, which is probably the best thing I can take out of the Premier League.
“When you’re playing at the elite level week in, week out, you’re not always going to be at your best, so you need to find different ways to win.
“If I went behind in games against the big players, I would maybe fold a little bit, but now I still believe I can win, even if I’m not playing at my best.”
Cullen has appeared in a further three televised quarter-finals over recent months, reaching the last eight at the World Series Finals, Grand Slam of Darts and Players Championship Finals.
He has also enjoyed success away from the big stage in 2022, scooping a brace of Players Championship titles and winning his third European Tour title at September's Hungarian Darts Trophy.
The Yorkshireman has come of age over the last 18 months, and he’s used family heartbreak as a source of inspiration following the passing of his mother last year.
“I think subconsciously, that is what spurred me on,” admitted Cullen, who revealed he and his wife have recently opened a local café in his mother’s memory, named ‘Pam’s Place.’
“Me and my wife thought it would be a good business venture, and it probably couldn’t have gone much better to be honest.
"It’s busy every day. I actually do a couple of days’ work in there and I enjoy it.
“It keeps you grounded, and the people who come in the café have grown up in the village, so it’s something away from darts.”
However, Cullen’s sights are now firmly set on a strong showing at Alexandra Palace, as he bids to cap off a stunning year by lifting the Sid Waddell Trophy for the first time.
The Bradford-born star will kick off his campaign against former European Championship quarter-finalist Ricky Evans in the final game of the pre-Christmas period on December 23.
The World Championship hasn’t been a happy hunting ground for Cullen, who is yet to go beyond the fourth round in 12 previous appearances, having lost his opening six matches in the event.
“If I can get myself in the position to potentially win it, I’ve got no doubt that I will get over the line,” insisted Cullen, buoyed by his experience of lifting a televised title.
“To get over the line in my first final shows that I can do it, even though it did take me a few darts!
“This title is one that nobody can take away from you. You will always be known as a World Champion.
“That is what we all play for, and that’s where all roads lead come this time of year.”
You can read the full exclusive interview with Joe in the Cazoo World Darts Championship commemorative programme, which is available to pre-order now through Curtis Sport.