By Tom Prosser
Welsh darts star Jonny Clayton says he is “one really, really happy geezer” after claiming victory at the World Series Finals in Amsterdam on Sunday evening.
This is Clayton’s fourth “TV major win” of the year which is astonishing considering he had never won one before the start of the year.
“I’m on cloud nine and smiling from ear to ear,” said Clayton, who away from darts works as a plasterer for Carmarthenshire County Council.
“The trophy is bigger than me! There’s no easy game. It’s my weekend, and I’ll smile.
“I feel good, my confidence is high, I’m enjoying every second of it.”
Words are lost on me, this year is getting better and better. So happy again… thank you @Jackscasino @OfficialPDC @ITV4 for another great event. And to the fans who were amazing 👏🏴🏴🏆😎 2021 the year of the ferret 😂😂🏴 pic.twitter.com/DtX4iTazv0
— Jonny Clayton (@JonnyClay9) October 31, 2021
Clayton’s first TV tournament win came at the Masters nine months ago and since then he has taken his form to another level.
Ironically, Clayton didn’t initially qualify for the event but the tournament was expanded to 24 players and has consequently proven to be the catalyst for Clayton’s world class form.
“This time last year I definitely wouldn’t have believed I would have won all these tournaments.
“But I didn’t believe Mark Webster when he told me I qualified for the Masters,” laughed Clayton.
“The masters could well have been the moment which changed my career.
“I just can’t believe what has happened.”
Jonny Clayton is the best player in the World at the minute. Deserves everything he’s getting great attitude. He’s a lovely boy aswell. @JonnyClay9
— Mark Webster (@Webby180) November 1, 2021
On the way to his latest victory, the 47-year-old beat fellow Welshman Gerwyn Price in the quarter-finals despite trailing 7-2- in a match that was first to 10.
He also beat multiple World Champion Michael Van Gerwen in the semi-finals before claiming victory over Dimitri Van den Bergh in the final.
“If I could have picked a draw, I certainly wouldn’t have picked that one,” explained Clayton.
“I took my chances and I hit some good scores at the right time.
“I think my checkouts won me that final.“I tried my best as always and I just hope this ride doesn’t stop.”