Michael Smith Reveals Hidden Toll of Darts Travel

Michael Smith has revealed the hidden toll of darts travel after a fiery exchange following his 6-3 loss against Mickey Mansell. The 2023 world champion shared a photo showing his visibly swollen feet and ankles after flying.

What happened to Michael Smith?

He explained what happens to his body when he travels, saying the pressure of the plane causes his feet and ankles to swell. This condition means the effects linger for days after landing, making it a mental battle as well.

How does travel affect Michael Smith?

Travel is a constant demand for professional darts players, particularly with European Tour events spread across the continent. Long flights and quick turnarounds are part of the job, but for Smith, the impact appears far more severe. He admitted the physical toll is becoming a mental battle, making him question himself: why do I bother to put up with the pain and suffering to please everyone else over my health?

What's next for Michael Smith?

The candid update arrived shortly after Smith's loss ended his hopes of qualifying for the Poland Darts Masters. He reacted angrily on social media and criticised his opponent's pace of play before later deleting the post. And Smith's frustration on multiple fronts suggests he is struggling to balance competition with the physical demands of touring. The sequence of events suggests Smith is at a crossroads, trying to manage his physical and mental health while competing at the highest level. So the question remains, how will Smith cope with the demands of the darts circuit and find a way to manage his condition? But for now, Smith will have to endure the pain and suffering, and hope that his body can recover in time for the next tournament. The 2023 world champion will be looking to bounce back from his loss and find a way to overcome his physical struggles. As Smith looks to the future, he will have to find a way to balance his health and his career, and hope that he can find a solution to his condition.