Darts champion Michael Smith recently shared details about his health struggles following a decline in his rankings. Despite clinching the World Championship title in 2023 by defeating Michael van Gerwen, Smith’s current position is 21st globally. The 34-year-old has been dealing with various health issues, such as shoulder, wrist, and foot problems, leading to his absence from recent competitions.
Smith received a diagnosis of severe osteoarthritis in his shoulder, expressing concerns about his physical condition deteriorating. While he remains optimistic about returning to competitive darts at a high level, he mentioned the possibility of requiring injections or even surgery in the future to address his shoulder and wrist issues.
Reflecting on his health challenges, Smith disclosed, “I received the results of my shoulder MRI, showing severe osteoarthritis. The next step involves considering injections for my shoulder and wrist. In the worst-case scenario, a shoulder replacement might be necessary post-retirement. Currently, I am focusing on the injections as a potential solution, as a shoulder replacement would entail a significant adjustment.”
In addition to his shoulder and wrist concerns, Smith also faced significant discomfort in his foot, leading to mobility issues. He recounted, “Before a recent Pro Tour event, I struggled to walk due to persistent pain in my left foot. Despite undergoing various tests and treatments, including x-rays and antibiotics, the cause of the issue remains unclear. The possibility of arthritis affecting my foot has been raised, adding to my overall health challenges.”
Having been a prominent figure in the darts world, Smith’s recent performance has been impacted by his health struggles, resulting in a decline in rankings and missed opportunities in competitions. Despite acknowledging his achievements, including semi-final appearances, Smith emphasized the importance of consistency and mental resilience in overcoming his physical limitations during matches.
In other news, Sky has announced a discounted offer for its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the upcoming 2025/26 season, providing subscribers with access to over 1,400 live matches across various leagues, including the Premier League and EFL. The package includes a substantial reduction in price and an increased number of live Premier League games to enhance the viewing experience for sports enthusiasts.