Ahead of his maiden PDC major title we spoke to Daryl Gurney on his breakthough year that had it's crowning glory on Saturday.
You won your first PDC title in April. Did it feel like you'd jumped a major hurdle?
Making my first final was the big step. I wanted to make a final this year, then take it further next year. PDC players were telling me: 'It won't be long until you win one'. But I hadn't even reached a final!
It was nearly two victories in two tournaments...
The next day I wired a bull to beat Joe Cullen, who then won the tournament.
You earned an invite to the US Masters in Las Vegas. Fun?
The atmosphere was brilliant! I was standing around with Peter Wright and Michael van Gerwen so the people must have thought I was a decent player! There wasn't time for [much sightseeing] but I saw a wee bit just by walking about.
Do the world's best players see you as a major threat lately?
Before, I would always give them a good game but miss a crucial double. Now I'm not doing that.
They always knew they were in for a game against me - but now my finishing percentage is going up. They know they can't make mistakes against me. They are wary of me.
You're the world No 12. What ranking are you aiming for in 12 months' time?
I want to break the top 10, get more experience and push on.
The World Grand Prix in Dublin is approaching. Not far from your home...
It's one weekend that I don't have to visit an airport! For once, the other guys can travel to me so that's a relief.
Hopefully, I'll get home support in Dublin because it feels like a home tournament.
And you're carrying hopes for Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland...
I'm the only Irish player in it, I think…
If you and Rory McIlroy played golf and darts, who would win?
The biggest names in darts will return to Dublin's Citywest Hotel from October 1-7 for the 2017 World Grand Prix and you will be able to watch all the action with us on Sky Sports
Who will win the World Grand Prix at Dublin's Citywest Hotel this year? Let us know your thoughts by tweeting @SkySportsDarts or by using the comments box below - sign in with Facebook. Follow us on Twitter & use #LoveTheDarts