Gary Anderson in positive mood for 2021 despite World Championship defeat

Two-time World Champion Gary Anderson has revealed that he is confident for the year ahead despite losing 7-3 to new world number one Gerwyn Price in Sunday’s World Championship final at the Alexandra Palace.

The Scotsman, who has struggled with issues in his back in recent years, looked back to his best at darts’ biggest tournament in the past few weeks, although he found it tough to make his mark in the final.

Price dominated the contest but Anderson found it tough to finish his doubles, missing 49 in total as Price secured his maiden world title and moved to the top of the rankings in the process.

The 50-year-old went into the tournament ranked 13th in the seedings, the lowest he has been placed for the tournament since 2014, but looked well back to his best during the three-week tournament and has moved up to eighth just behind James Wade, who had a disappointing tournament, losing to Stephen Bunting who has also jumped into 17th.

Pre-tournament favourite Michael Van Gerwen was well beaten 5-0 by Dave Chisnall in the last eight and as a result drops below Price.

Anderson was in a positive mood when he spoke to Sky Sports after his defeat to Price on Sunday evening.

“I’m going to start back. I came here with no expectations whatsoever, made it to the final. Gerwen had a walkover, but this year I’m looking forward.

“It’s there, but it’s just down to the lack of playing. I’ve not done much over the last two years, so turned up cold.

“Michael got knocked out, Michael Smith got knocked out, Peter Wright – it opened up the whole tournament right away.

“The boys are playing well now, so it’s going to be a good few years for the darts. I’m just going to keep going. I’m not done yet. Keep playing and see what goes – if I can pinch a penny, watch out.”

The Premier League Darts competition has been delayed in the hope of getting fans back into the arena, meaning its’s not clear when the likes of Anderson and Price will line up, but either way it’s set to be another big year ahead for the sport.

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