Jonny Clayton defeated Raymond van Barneveld last night at the World Matchplay, a year on from making the final.
It was the first time the Welshman had been beyond the second round, but Clayton was dealing with personal issues throughout the tournament.
His father was battling illness last July and passed away shortly after the final.
‘The Ferret’s’ form dipped in the second half of 2023, and the 49-year-old revealed he considered walking away from the sport after losing his father.
Jonny Clayton could’ve pulled out of this year’s World Matchplay
Understandably, this time of year will forever be emotional for Clayton.
He averaged over a ton in defeating Van Barneveld last night but speaking to Darts Now, he revealed that he considered pulling out of the tournament.
He said: “I didn’t want to be here to be honest I could’ve easily pulled out, too many memories.
“I was gonna give it all up when I lost my Dad, not bother about darts. You know I got friends and family behind me who believe in me, and they just kept saying, ‘He wouldn’t have wanted this’.”
Clayton won the final Pro Tour event before the World Matchplay as he looks to kickstart his season.
He added: “I’m enjoying darts, I’ve got a smile on my face and that’s all that counts.”
Clayton remains a serious threat for the title
Clayton admitted his form has been poor and spoke of his hurt after missing out on the Premier League.
The former Premier League Champion laid down a marker last night in his opening round win as he looks to lift the trophy that narrowly eluded him last year.
He remains in the world’s top eight and could propel himself into the top four with victory in Blackpool this week.
His display last night would have given Clayton much-needed confidence and if he can reproduce something similar, he will have a big impact at the Winter Gardens once again this year.