Robert Owen was in tears after his win. (Image: Sky Sports Darts)
There was both tears and jeers for Robert Owen following his third-round win over Ricky Evans at the World Darts Championship. The 40-year-old came from 2-1 down to prevail 4-2, a victory that secured his PDC Tour card for next season.
The Welshman has only once previously played in the tournament in the 2022/23 version, where he went out in the first round.
And after starting his post-match Sky Sports interview calmly, the 40-year-old soon exploded on the microphone.
Asked if it was his biggest ever victory, he replied: “The last game was the biggest of my life but this really was! Ricky is a fantastic guy and a great player…”
After pausing, Owen said: “Well can I say it now, can I say it? NOW I HAVE RETAINED MY TOUR CARD! COME ON.”
Owen was seen shouting the famous Welsh phrase ‘Yma o Hyd’ to himself during the clash, which translates to ‘We are still here in Engish’. And he also explained why he was using it to motivate himself.
Owen celebrates after taking a 3-2 lead. (Image: Getty)
“I’m here, Yma o Hyd, I’m here,” he continued. “I’m here to do the best for my family and just for everyone. I don’t care what anyone else thinks. But I am here to do my best for my family and give us all a nice life. I’ve done well here this week so I am very happy.”
The win for Owen kick-started a big night for Weslh darts at Ally Pally. His match was followed by the first fourth-round match of the tournament, with former world champion Gerwyn Price taking on compatriot Jonny Clayton.
Asked if he would be staying around to watch, Bridgend based Owen said: “Course I am.I’m sticking around to watch the boys. So come one give them all a bit of fair play and give them a big bit of support. Just remember if you’re Welsh, Yma o Hyd!”
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