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‘I have to be honest’… Jonny Clayton shares how close he came to quitting darts entirely

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Jonny Clayton was one of the best darts players in the world a few years ago.

The Welshman won no fewer than four major titles in 2021, and he looked like he could potentially kick on from there and become a world champion.

Sadly, Clayton hasn’t quite maintained that level and if his performances don’t improve, he could soon drop out of the top 10.

Luckily, it looks as though Clayton is on his way towards getting back to his best, and he showcased his ability with a triumphant win at the World Grand Prix on Sunday.

Indeed, Clayton beat Ritchie Edhouse 2-0 in Leicester on Sunday, averaging 93 along the way, which is a very solid average for a double in, double out event.

Speaking to Online Darts after the game, Clayton has been discussing some of his troubles on the oche in recent years, and he says that he nearly decided to quit darts in the past year, but now, he’s much happier with his game.

Jonny Clayton almost quit darts

Clayton spoke about how he was feeling last year.

“I’m a dart player. I want to be the best in my sport. I have to be honest, in the last year it could’ve been packed up time. But I’m back enjoying it, I have a smile on my face. I don’t like losing, so that is a good thing for The Ferret,” Clayton said.

2023/24 Paddy Power World Darts Championship - Day Thirteen
Photo by Tom Dulat/Getty Images

How has Jonny Clayton performed this year?

Jonny Clayton nearly quit darts this year, and it’s easy to understand why he’s been so frustrated with his game.

The Ferret has really struggled in the big events over the past 12 months.

Clayton was eliminated in the first round in the World Grand Prix, European Championship and the Grand Slam towards the end of 2023, while he didn’t make much of a run at the World Championships, UK Open or World Matchplay.

As Clayton says, he’s much happier with how his game is going right now, and this first round Grand Prix victory could spark another run for the 2021 champion.

Write Jonny Clayton off at your own peril.