Full Name | Michael Smith |
Nickname | Bully Boy |
Date of Birth | 18th September 1990 |
Nationality | English |
PDC Debut | 2009 |
Highest World Ranking | 1 |
Current Ranking | 1 |
Major Titles Won |
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Career Earnings | £2.5 Million+ |
Win Percentage | 70% |
9-Dart Finishes | 11 |
Key Rivals |
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Memorable Matches |
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Playing Style | Fluid, consistent, and explosive scoring power with an effortless throw. |
Strengths |
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Personal Life | Born in St Helens, England, Michael discovered darts at a young age. Despite facing early criticism and setbacks, he persevered to become a World Champion. Smith is a devoted family man, often sharing his success with his wife and children. |
Recent Form | Smith’s recent form has been outstanding, highlighted by his 2023 World Championship victory and consistent success on the European Tour. His rise to World No. 1 reflects his confidence and dominance on the PDC circuit. |
Major Awards and Achievements
Major Titles Won: 2023 PDC World Champion, 2022 Grand Slam of Darts Winner, 2023 Bahrain Darts Master, 8 PDC European Tour Titles
Michael Smith, affectionately known as the **“Bully Boy”**, is one of the most talented and explosive players in modern darts. After years of promise and near misses, Smith’s breakthrough came in **2023** when he won the **PDC World Championship**, defeating **Michael van Gerwen** in an epic final to claim his first world title.
Smith also secured the **2022 Grand Slam of Darts**, further cementing his position as one of the best players in the world. Known for his high scoring and fluid throw, Smith has consistently performed on the European Tour and ProTour, amassing numerous titles and breaking into the **world number one ranking**.
Significant Matches
2023 PDC World Championship Final – Beating Michael van Gerwen:
Smith’s career-defining moment came on **3rd January 2023** when he defeated **Michael van Gerwen** 7-4 in the **PDC World Championship Final**. The match will forever be remembered for Smith’s breathtaking **9-dart finish**, one of the most iconic moments in darts history. This victory fulfilled Smith’s destiny and silenced any doubts about his ability to win on the biggest stage.
2022 Grand Slam of Darts – First Major Title:
Smith captured his first televised major title at the **2022 Grand Slam of Darts**, defeating **Nathan Aspinall** 16-5 in the final. This win marked the beginning of a new chapter in Smith’s career, ending his run of near misses in previous finals.
2022 US Darts Masters Final – Victory Over Michael van Gerwen:
Smith showcased his class on the World Series stage with a stunning 8-4 victory over **Michael van Gerwen** in the **US Darts Masters Final**. His clinical finishing and heavy scoring were on full display, proving his ability to dominate on global platforms.
Career Statistics
Career Earnings: £2.5 Million+
Michael Smith has earned over **£2.5 million** in prize money, with his World Championship victory contributing significantly to his rise in career earnings. His consistent performances across ProTour events and televised majors further bolster his financial success.
Win Percentage: 70%
With a career **win percentage of 70%**, Smith’s consistency and ability to win matches at all levels have made him a mainstay in the world’s top rankings.
9-Dart Finishes: 11
Smith has hit **11 nine-dart finishes**, including his legendary perfect leg in the **2023 World Championship Final**, one of the most iconic moments in darts history.
Key Rivals
Michael van Gerwen:
Smith’s rivalry with **Michael van Gerwen** has been central to his career. Their battles, particularly in major finals, have often showcased Smith’s resilience and scoring power. His **2023 World Championship victory** over Van Gerwen is a defining moment in their rivalry.
Gerwyn Price:
The matchups between Smith and **Gerwyn Price** have been highly competitive and fiery. Both players, known for their scoring prowess, often produce thrilling encounters in majors and ProTour events.
Nathan Aspinall:
Smith’s battles with **Nathan Aspinall** have seen high-stakes matches, including Smith’s commanding win in the **2022 Grand Slam of Darts Final**. Their rivalry highlights the competitiveness of the new generation of darts stars.
Memorable Matches
1. 2023 PDC World Championship Final: Defeating Michael van Gerwen 7-4 with a 9-dart finish.
2. 2022 Grand Slam of Darts Final: Winning his first major title against Nathan Aspinall.
3. 2022 US Darts Masters Final: Victory over Michael van Gerwen on the World Series stage.
Personal Life
Michael Smith was born in **St Helens, England**, where he discovered his love for darts at a young age. Despite early setbacks and criticism, Smith’s determination and talent have propelled him to the pinnacle of the sport.
Off the oche, Smith is a devoted family man, often sharing moments with his wife and children. Known for his humble and grounded nature, Smith’s journey to World Champion is an inspiring story of perseverance and hard work.
Recent Form
Michael Smith’s recent form has been outstanding, highlighted by his **2023 World Championship title** and consistent success on the **European Tour**. Smith’s confidence and ability to hit high averages under pressure make him one of the most dangerous players on the circuit today.
Conclusion
Michael Smith, the **“Bully Boy”**, is now firmly established as one of the world’s elite darts players. His **2023 World Championship victory** and **Grand Slam title** mark the culmination of years of hard work and promise. With his relentless scoring, composure, and championship mentality, Smith’s future in darts remains incredibly bright as he continues to compete for the sport’s biggest prizes.