Darts player Michael Smith recently disclosed the health challenges he has faced that led to a decline in his ranking. Despite winning the World Championship in 2023 by defeating Michael van Gerwen, Smith now holds the 21st position globally. His absence from recent competitions was due to various health issues, including shoulder, wrist, and foot problems, which he has now shared openly.
Smith has been diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis in his shoulder, expressing concerns that his body may be deteriorating. While he remains optimistic about returning to competitive darts at a high level, he mentioned the possibility of receiving injections for his shoulder and wrist, with potential surgery in the future.
The 34-year-old player expressed his thoughts on his health condition, stating, “I received the MRI results for my shoulder, indicating severe osteoarthritis or a similar condition that I struggle to pronounce.” He acknowledged the option of injections for his shoulder and wrist and contemplated the possibility of a shoulder replacement in the future, which he views as a last resort.
Additionally, Smith shared his previous struggles with foot pain, which still lacks a definitive diagnosis. He described experiencing difficulty walking due to swelling and discussed undergoing various tests and treatments, including the consideration of arthritis in his foot.
Despite his consistent presence at the top of the darts scene, Smith faced challenges qualifying for the World Matchplay for the first time since 2013. He attributed his recent performance setbacks to his health issues and emphasized the importance of mental focus and consistency in his matches.
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