Emotional Michael Smith has vowed to fight his way back to the top after returning to winning ways on the big stage at the Mr Vegas Grand Slam of Darts.
Smith claimed glory in the Grand Slam of Darts three years ago and went on to become World Champion and world number one.
However, he has dropped out of the world's top 20 this year whilst also battling against a shoulder injury and arthritis, and makes his first appearance in a Premier event since the UK Open at the Grand Slam.
After opening his Wolverhampton challenge with a 5-3 win over Nathan Aspinall in Group A on Saturday, Smith broke down in tears as he stated his desire to return to the sport's elite.
"I'm a fighter," Smith told Viaplay. "I'll be back, don't worry!
"I've always been a fighter, so to be back on stage and winning matches, that's what means the most to me.
"Winning matches, that's who I'm about, that's Michael Smith, not sitting at home. Being on big stages listening to the crowds, that's me.
"I just want to be competing. I'm sick of sitting at home watching people win tournaments and I'm sat at home.
"To get up there, to win that match is a bit emotional and I'm just glad to get over the line.
"Nathan should have won that. I just hung in there and I got the job done in the end, and I'll take the win."