Callan Rydz Faces Motivation Challenges in Smaller Tournaments
Callan Rydz, the English darts player, recently progressed to the second round of the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship. He won convincingly against debutant Patrik Kovacs with a score of 3-0 in sets. However, this victory was more about nerves and survival than flawless scoring for Rydz.
Facing Motivation Challenges in Smaller Tournaments
Despite the seemingly straightforward victory, Rydz admitted it was a “scrappy affair.” Speaking to reporters after the match, he expressed relief at advancing, underscoring the unique pressure of Alexandra Palace, saying, “This isn’t a normal match.” From the moment he woke up, he felt the tension building up to the game.
Distractions and Nerves
Kovacs attempted to engage Rydz backstage to alleviate some nerves, but Rydz kept his focus. He remarked, “I want to win,” highlighting his competitive drive. Although he acknowledged Kovacs’ performance, he remained concentrated on his own game during the match.
Rydz, who has reached the quarterfinals of the World Championship twice, is aware of the unpredictability of the tournament. Nevertheless, he is adamant about taking it “one match at a time.” He stated his commitment to performing well at Alexandra Palace, sharing that the atmosphere there resonates with him on a level that other events don’t.
Struggles with Motivation
Rydz has spoken candidly about the difficulties he faces outside of the World Championships. He finds ProTour events and the Euro Tour less stimulating. “Sometimes you’re playing in front of fifty people,” he said, emphasizing his struggle to remain motivated in smaller venues.
Despite recognizing the importance of these tournaments for qualifying and improving his chances, Rydz admits that mindset can hinder his performance. “I need to get that out of my head,” he stated, acknowledging his need to find greater consistency throughout the season.
Self-Reflection and Professionalism
The competitive atmosphere of the World Championships draws out his best performances. Rydz thrives on the noise and energy of a crowded venue, contrasting this with the distraction of smaller crowds. “This is the best place to play,” he affirmed.
Rydz’s road to the World Championship wasn’t ideal due to an illness, which left him feeling less than 100%. He shared, “I barely ate anything,” expressing relief at regaining his strength before the tournament.
Future Aspirations
Surprisingly, Rydz is not overly concerned with his rankings in the sport. “I don’t look at them,” he explained. While he understands that success at the World Championships can be transformative for a player’s career, he chooses to focus on his performance rather than the numbers. “It doesn’t help me,” he noted.
- Event: 2026 PDC World Darts Championship
- Opponent: Patrik Kovacs
- Score: 3-0 in sets
- Venue: Alexandra Palace
- Previous Quarterfinal Appearances: Two
As Rydz continues to navigate the challenges of motivation in darts, his focus will likely remain on improving his game and making the most of every opportunity presented to him at prestigious events like the World Championships.
