Darts star Callan Rydz mourns loss of grandfather after championship victory
Darts player Callan Rydz has experienced profound loss following the death of his grandfather just hours after his notable second-round victory at the World Darts Championship, reports BritPanorama.
The 27-year-old from Bedlington achieved a remarkable upset against world number 22 Daryl Gurney on Tuesday, which secured him a place in the next round at Alexandra Palace. However, this moment of triumph quickly transformed into heartbreak for Rydz.
Following his win, Rydz was visibly emotional, with the gravity of his grandfather’s illness overshadowing his performance during the match. He took to Instagram to pay tribute, stating, “There’s not enough words to say. RIP grandad,” and promised to “try my best to make you and grandma proud up there. I love you.”
In his post-match reflections, Rydz candidly acknowledged the difficult circumstances weighing on his mind. “I wear my heart on my sleeve. I’m struggling,” he admitted. He explained that the challenges at home affected his play, despite the supportive atmosphere from the crowd. “I’ve got a job to do and thankfully I got through,” he added. “But I wish I was home.”
Rydz reminisced about cherished Christmas traditions with his grandfather, who watched the match from the hospital. “Christmas Day, we have a tradition, if my grandad is OK, we will go to the pub. Have a laugh with the lads,” he recounted, conveying how deeply the loss resonates with his passion for darts.
Even amidst the competition, the emotional toll of the past year has been significant, as Rydz faced similar tragedy last year with the death of his grandmother. Entering the third round, he faces a tough match against Northern Irish competitor Josh Rock, the world number 11, and will undoubtedly have the support of the crowd at Ally Pally as he continues his journey.
In a sport where personal dedication meets public adoration, Rydz’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the personal sacrifices behind the triumphs, illustrating how the weight of family and legacy intertwines with the pursuit of excellence on the grand stage.
