Ross Smith insists he is capable of lifting the coveted Sid Waddell Trophy in January, after opening his Paddy Power World Darts Championship campaign with victory over Niels Zonneveld last week.
Number sixteen seed Smith began his challenge with a 3-1 success against Zonneveld last Wednesday, averaging 95 and firing home a spectacular 170 checkout during the round two clash.
“I don’t think I played that great,” insisted Smith, who is bidding to break new ground at Alexandra Palace this year.
“I came off stage and I felt it was a lot worse than it was. Maybe I am too hard on myself.
“It was amazing to be back on that stage. The crowd were absolutely fantastic.
“I don’t know why they give me so much support because I’m not one of the big boys, but I can’t ask for anything more, and I just love being here."
The former European Champion has failed to progress beyond the third round in the sport’s flagship event, but he has renewed hope ahead of his latest appearance in the capital.
“I know I’m playing well and I believe I can win it; I wouldn’t be here otherwise,” insisted the Dover darter.
“I always feel like I can do well. My stats are really strong, but I’m going under the radar.
“I also know there’s another 20 players who could possibly win it, so I’m realistic.”
Smith has lost at the last 32 stage in his previous two World Championship appearances, succumbing in deciding-set epics against Dirk van Duijvenbode on both occasions.
However, with the Dutchman eliminated from this year’s competition, Smith is confident of creating a personal milestone this time around.
“Last year my form on the ProTour was disgraceful to be fair,” continued a candid Smith, who has celebrated a brace of Players Championship wins in 2023.
“This year I’ve won a couple of titles, so it’s been a really good season on the floor. I’ve rectified that.
“In the TV events, it’s not been good enough. I’ve been aiming for quarter-finals and semi-finals minimum to try and push on, but it’s not quite been there.
“I think I’ve played well, but you need the rub of the green sometimes, so hopefully it comes here.”
Smith will take on Masters champion Chris Dobey in a mouth-watering third round tie, in their first televised meeting since their clash in the 2022 European Championship semi-finals.
Smith claimed the spoils en route to lifting the title in Dortmund, but he faces a tough test against Dobey, who averaged 103 in his stunning deciding-set victory against William O’Connor.
“I love Chris to bits,” claimed the 34-year-old, speaking ahead of the Christmas break.
“He had a really tough game against Willie, who is a superb player, and I know I’ve got a tough game in the next round.
“I can just enjoy Christmas now, and I’ve got more time to prepare for my game against Chris.”