Sky Sports host Emma Paton has revealed she is a “real romantic” when it comes to darts, always finding herself rooting for the sport's former champions and the stars who evoke nostalgia.
Paton, who got her start in media thanks to a chance encounter, joked that “darts is really my life” before explaining her soft spot for players who remind her of the sport's past.
A soft spot for Michael van Gerwen
Speaking to Daily Star Sport via Leasing Options, Paton said: “I feel like I'm a real romantic when it comes to sport, so I think I find myself rooting for those former champions or people where I like the nostalgia.”
She recalled her early days covering the sport: “When I started, the first darts that I covered was in 2020, and that was kind of when Michael van Gerwen was still really the main guy. Gerwyn Price had a brilliant year - I think he won the Worlds at the end of that year, in 2021 - but it was still very much Michael van Gerwen. That was when I started in the sport, and he was such a legend and an icon...”
It wasn't just his prowess at the oche that left a mark on Paton. She added: “He was one of the first people to actually talk to me and introduce himself, which I always find hilarious because I was like, 'Yeah, I know who you are'. But there was a real politeness with that, so I just think he's a class act. He's always one that I really hope can still win majors.”
Gary Anderson also brings nostalgia
Van Gerwen isn't the only great that brings out her nostalgic side. Gary Anderson also falls into that category, with much of the Flying Scotsman's success coming before Paton had started covering the sport.
“And I guess in that same vein, Gary Anderson is another one because it was kind of before my time, really, that he was winning world titles and major tournaments. So again, nostalgia - I always find myself wanting him to do it again at some point while I'm involved in darts. Some of the real legends, I think, are the answer. But also, as I said with Michael, I just think he's classy.”
However, Paton added that she tries to remain impartial, even if her “romantic” side does occasionally get the better of her: “I like them all. I try not to have favourites.”
