Veteran James Wade admits playing the World Grand Prix is ”terrible” and “hell” despite reaching the quarter-finals on Thursday.
The 43-year-old, who last lifted a major trophy at the UK Open in 2021, continued his bid for a third world major after producing a superb display to beat Stephen Bunting 3-1 in the unique double start format at Leicester.
Wade averaged 93.20 and shot 15 140, challenging Bunting’s average of 96 to book his place in the last eight.
“I just felt like it was the right place and the right time. It just wasn’t the right place for Stephen,” said Wade, nicknamed ‘The Machine’. Sky Sports’ Polly James.
“I think I was better than average. I’m just grateful to win. It’s very difficult to win a double start.
“We can all play well and pretend we’re relaxed and enjoying the game. But it’s horrible, it’s diabolical.
“It’s not very pretty. It’s graft and just very hard work. We’re not all good, we’re working hard.”
Wade, who attended a local art gallery in Leicester as part of his preparations, was asked if he is currently playing some of the best darts of his career.
“Nowhere near really,” he replied. “But I have to play better against better players. I have a lot more gear to do.
“But talk is free, and I am full of free words.”
Speaking at his press conference, Wade said: “I get nervous, I make myself feel sick, I don’t want to be involved in it.
“I just want it over and over quickly.
“So am I well-equipped, or do I just handle the end of the stick better than others? It’s so nerve-wracking; it’s terrifying.”
‘The best striker I have ever seen’
Wade spoke highly of Gary Anderson after the Scot left the tournament
Wade also hailed Gary Anderson as one of the all-time greats, despite the “Flying Scotsman” exiting the tournament. after a historic 3-1 victory for Dutchman Niels Zonneveld.
Of Anderson’s legacy in the sport, Wade said: “I’ve played against every darts player in the world and he’s the best scorer in the world when he’s at his best.
“I think those days are gone now. I don’t think we’ll ever see that score from Gary Anderson again, but when he was there he was the best goalscorer I’ve ever seen.
“I’m not put on a pedestal like that and it is what it is. I’m just happy to still be around and still snapping young people up, so that’s good.”
Sky Sports remains the home of darts with the World Grand Prix (September 28-October 4), Grand Slam of Darts (November 14-22) and the World Darts Championship (December 10-January 3) all live. Stream streaming arrows and more through NOW with no contract.
