EXCLUSIVE Stephen Bunting is cherishing a chance to win a major as he explained his love for the World Grand Prix to Daily Star Sport last month
Stephen Bunting might bot be going double-in on his chances in Leicester – but the Bullet is a big fan of the World Grand Prix format.
The eyes of the darting world turn to the most unique tournament on the calendar as it gets underway on Monday evening.
The World Grand Prix’s trademark double-start format – where players must hit a double to begin each leg – is a mental minefield for many. But Bunting is relishing his opening-round clash with Niko Springer, the breakout star of September.
“I think it makes it stand out,” Bunting told Daily Star Sport when asked about the format at the launch of Target darts’ pop-up shop in Manchester.
“Obviously, we can’t do double-in every tournament – it would be really difficult. But as a one-off, it’s unique, it’s special, and it’s a great tournament to play in.
“I honestly can’t wait to get to Leicester and get started. Going in as world No.4 has its rewards too – I’ll avoid the top seeds until maybe the quarters or semis.
“So yeah, I’m looking forward to it. Every tournament’s enjoyable, but the Grand Prix is a bit more special because of the format. Everyone wants to win it.”
Often described as one of the toughest majors to conquer, the event has produced its fair share of surprises – none bigger than Mike De Decker’s stunning maiden major triumph last year.
Despite his enthusiasm, Bunting admitted he hadn’t yet started practising his doubles when speaking to us a couple of weeks before the tournament.
He continued: “Not at the moment, but I’ve still got a couple of weeks before we start.
“The double-in format makes that tournament unique – something we don’t do all the time. I enjoy it, it brings a buzz. I don’t really like that it’s in Leicester, though. Double-in was in Dublin, which was great.
“But hopefully it’ll still be well attended, and hopefully I can do really well.”
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