STEPHEN BUNTING revealed he endured a difficult Christmas after spending the day in A&E with his son Theo.
‘The Bullet’ powered into round two of the World Masters with a 3–1 victory over Jeffrey de Graaf, averaging an impressive 98.86.
However, the St Helens thrower explained he had faced significant challenges behind the scenes ahead of the tournament in Milton Keynes.
He said: “People don’t see what goes on behind the scenes. On Christmas Day, I was in A&E with Theo until 2:30 in the morning.
“I’m not one for excuses, but it wasn’t easy and things didn’t go to plan.”
The world No.7 remains optimistic about the future, adding: “But listen I’m really excited for the Premier League and the rest of the season.
“I know I need to work harder and do some things differently and I’m willing to put that effort in.
“I’ve got great management, great family, great fans and unbelievable sponsors. They’re the people who keep me strong.
“Our sport is getting better every year. Nothing is a given. If you don’t work hard, you get swept away.
“It’s about time I grew up and accepted that I need to put the work in. I’m ready to do that.”
Bunting returns to action at Arena MK against Danny Noppert on Saturday evening, with a quarter-final place at stake.
He continued: “I won my first PDC title here and I remember celebrating in the hotel bar afterwards.
“Those memories stay with you for life. To do it again would be special. I’ve got great experience and confidence. It won’t be for lack of trying.”
Image by Taylor Lanning.
