Callan Rydz will take to the stage at Alexandra Palace on Monday night for his World Darts Championship round-of-32 clash with Josh Rock, just days after the death of his grandfather. The Englishman is grieving a devastating family loss that he says has left him questioning his future in the sport.
Rydz broke down in a Sky Sports interview after beating Daryl Gurney in the previous round, speaking about his grandfather's illness. He revealed that Gurney had been a constant source of support, messaging him every day to ask how his grandad was. 'I'm getting emotional thinking about it,' he said, as the interview was cut short.
Later, backstage, Rydz was candid about his struggles. 'I wear my heart on my sleeve. I'm struggling,' he said. 'I play for my family. I've got a job to do and thankfully I got through. We are preparing for this to be the last Christmas. I haven't practised either. I've been ill. Had that flu that has gone around. I was in bed for two days.' He admitted that once his grandfather passed away, he would likely consider packing in the sport, but took comfort in the fact his grandad liked a laugh about that.
Hours after his win over Gurney, Rydz confirmed his grandfather had died. In an Instagram post, he wrote: 'There's not enough words to say. RIP Grandad. I'll promise to try and make you and grandma proud up there. I love you.'
Despite the heavy weight on his shoulders, Rydz remains determined to do his family proud against Rock. He also spoke warmly of the Ally Pally crowd, who have previously targeted his hairstyle but have since helped spur him on. 'The crowd won me that game, I didn't win it,' he said. 'I'm all for the banter - I can give it them just as much as they can give it me.'
