Party-pooper Jeffrey De Graaf warned Gary Anderson not to expect any presents on his birthday.
The Scot’s 54th bash was ruined by the Swede who slammed him out of the Paddy Power World Championship. De Graaf admitted his 3-0 win was a dream-come-true success and that he got the niceties out of the way before bursting the balloons on the stage. He said: “I was aware it was Gary’s birthday. I congratulated him in the practice room. I also told him don’t expect any presents.
“It’s a dream come true for me. He has been my idol since I was 14 years old. What he is capable of is unbelievable. But he didn’t really turn up. I got my chances and took them immediately. Beating my idol on this stage, it is definitely (the night of my darting life). It’s the biggest game of my life. I didn’t expect to win. But he was not bringing his A game.
“He congratulated me for the win. But I was just celebrating and being happy. It’s great. Gary didn’t really show up as he usually does. I am very happy. I got very nervous after the first set.
“I was a bit lucky in the second set when he missed a lot of doubles. That gave me confidence in the third set. This has been my best year. I am happy to be here. I will keep on going. My checkouts were the difference.”
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