Stephen Bunting Reveals Christmas Day A&E Struggles with Son Theo
Stephen Bunting has opened up about his recent experiences, including the challenges he faced on Christmas Day with his son, Theo. After a late-night visit to A&E, where they stayed until 2:30 AM, Bunting reflected on how this emotional strain affected his performance during the World Masters.
Stephen Bunting’s Recent Performance
Despite a lackluster start, Bunting secured a 3-1 victory over Jeffrey de Graaf, moving into the second round. “I felt great all day, and then I got on stage, and it just didn’t happen,” he explained. His early struggles included poor scoring and missing key shots, particularly the treble 20s.
Preparing for Success
Facing the pressure of short sets in competitive darts, Bunting noted the intensity of the format. “You can’t afford to slip up because they can take advantage straight away,” he stated. He has adapted to this style, having previously won both the World Masters and the Masters.
- Victory over Jeffrey de Graaf: 3-1
- Early struggles on stage
- Adapting to short sets in competition
Bunting emphasized the necessity of being fresher for the next round against Danny Noppert. His preparation for the matches includes arriving at the venue significantly earlier to settle in and adjust.
A Contrast in Experiences
His return from World Series events in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain has been drastic. The excitement of past matches contrasted sharply with the emotional toll of Christmas Day. “Out of the fire and into the cauldron,” he remarked, cherishing the support from fans during his performance.
Looking Ahead
Bunting’s management has helped him navigate distractions from social media, allowing him to focus on his performance. As he approaches 40, he remains optimistic for the future. “I still think I’ve got 10 great years left,” he affirmed.
While Bunting aims to improve further, he acknowledges the need for hard work. “It’s about time I grew up and accepted that I need to put the work in,” he confessed. His ambition for the upcoming Premier League season is clear: “To win a game.” Bunting’s upcoming matches will reflect his dedication and experience, hallmarks of his journey in professional darts.
