Callan Rydz has made a candid admission that his desire for darts has waned during a difficult period, telling Online Darts: “When I am losing and playing really poorly, I don't really care. I'm just a bit defeated.” The Englishman, known for his explosive scoring, reflected on his struggles while out on the golf course ahead of a charity event.
Rydz, who played nine holes with Tom Sykes and his manager the day before, said golf has helped him escape: “Getting out with the lads once a month helps you get away from the darts. Especially at the minute, because I'm not having a good time with the darts.” He admitted his form has been inconsistent over the past few seasons, adding: “It's happened every year. I've always gone through spells where I've played poorly, but I know it'll come back. It's just a matter of when.”
Behind the struggles lies the recent loss of his grandfather, a life-changing event that has had a profound impact. Rydz revealed that at the World Championship against Josh Rock, “I didn't really want to play. I didn't want to go down there. I only went because I'm not financially secure enough not to. Otherwise, I probably wouldn't have gone.” He praised Rock for his support: “Josh was really respectful afterwards… All the family loved it and they were glad I went down.” Rydz now avoids his grandfather's house on the same street as his mother's: “I used to go there every day to see him. Now I just look at a house where I've spent so much of my life.”
Despite the lack of desire, Rydz remains confident he can return to his best. He noted that two years ago he was averaging 105-plus more often than when he was winning titles, and made a final where he lost to Michael Smith. “I know the game's there and I know I'm talented enough… I know I can average 110, 115. I've done it on the ProTour before. It's just about getting it back again.” He acknowledged that not putting in the practice has caught up with him: “It's up to me to go home, put more hours in, start playing more competitions back home and get that match practice back up.”
