Exclusive: Peter Wright Aims for World Matchplay Redemption Amid Form and Family Challenges

Scottish darts ace Peter Wright is ready to put his season of disappointment behind him – and hit it lucky at the World Matchplay in Blackpool.

Two-time world champion Wright has battled a health scare and mental demons in the past couple of years.

But the 2021 World Matchplay champion is looking to draw on his memorable success from three years ago to land his first major title since winning the European Championship last year.

“My form is pretty terrible at the moment to be honest,” Wright told SportsBoom.com. 

“The top 32 players are there, but I’m probably not in the top 128 with the way I’ve been playing.”

“But I’m feeling great approaching it. I was making a coffee the other morning and I got little goosebumps thinking about the tournament.”

“I’m looking forward to it, even though my form hasn’t been great.”

“I’ve won it and been in the semis a few times and lost in the final, so it’s been a pretty good place for me.”

“I really enjoy it in Blackpool, the crowd and the venue is amazing.”

“And if you can’t get up for it, even when you’re playing bad, then there’s something wrong with you.”

Wright’s wife Joanne continues to suffer health problems and, understandably, 54-year-old Wright has struggled to focus on his form with family foremost in his thoughts.

“Jo has still got lots of stuff going on, the doctors are still trying to sort out a couple of things,” revealed Wright.

“But I’m feeling better thankfully, even though I’m getting a bit fat,” Wright joked.

“I’m definitely in a good place mentally, I’m looking forward to the rest of the year, so let’s see what happens.”

“I’ve got the miserable half of the year out of the way now, so I’m ready to start playing proper darts.”

Image credit: PDC

Wright’s first round clash with Andrew Gilding has been brought forward from 8pm to 4.30pm to avoid a clash with England versus Spain in the Euro 2024 final in Germany.

But ‘Snakebite’ doesn’t mind the late change because he’s already eyeing up a gourmet hotel dinner by the seaside.

“I’m just playing a bit earlier, but I’m not bothered to be honest – and I won’t be watching the football,” admitted Wright.

“At least I’ll be able to get myself back to my room and get something decent to eat.”