Stephen Bunting makes surprise retirement admission moments after first round World Darts Championship win
Stephen Bunting Makes Surprise Retirement Admission Moments After First-Round World Darts Championship Win
Stephen Bunting stunned fans after his first-round victory at the World Darts Championship by making a candid admission about retirement, revealing that thoughts about the end of his career are never far from his mind.
Fresh from sealing a hard-fought win on the iconic Alexandra Palace stage, Bunting opened up emotionally in his post-match interview, admitting that the relentless demands of professional darts have led him to reflect on how long he wants to continue competing at the highest level.
Speaking at Alexandra Palace, the popular star stressed that retirement is not imminent, but acknowledged that the conversation is one he now has with himself more often.
“I’d be lying if I said I don’t think about it,” Bunting admitted. “The travel, the pressure, the time away from family — it all adds up. Moments like this remind me why I still love it, but you do start thinking about the future.”
Despite the admission, Bunting was quick to reassure supporters that he remains fully committed to the tournament and is determined to make the most of his time on the sport’s biggest stage at the World Darts Championship.
The former world champion produced a composed and clinical display to progress beyond the opening round, drawing loud backing from the Ally Pally crowd, who once again embraced his status as one of darts’ most popular figures.
Bunting explained that the crowd’s support is a major reason he continues to push on, describing the atmosphere as something that still gives him goosebumps after more than a decade at the top.
“When you walk out there and hear that noise, it’s special,” he said. “That’s what keeps you going. As long as I feel that and I’m competitive, I’ll keep playing.”
The 39-year-old has experienced both highs and lows in recent seasons, battling for consistency while remaining a regular presence on the biggest stages. His honesty resonated with fans, many of whom praised his openness about the mental and physical toll of life on tour.
Bunting also hinted that when the time does eventually come to step away, he wants to do so on his own terms — still enjoying the game and still able to perform.
“I never want to be someone who hangs around too long,” he added. “I want to leave knowing I gave everything and enjoyed it.”
For now, retirement talk is firmly parked to one side. With momentum behind him and the crowd firmly in his corner, Bunting’s focus has returned to the immediate challenge of pushing deeper into the tournament.
And judging by the roar he received at Ally Pally, the People’s Champion still has plenty of chapters left to write before that final dart is ever thrown. 🎯
