For the second time in his career Callan Rydz ensured a return to the Alexandra Palace after Christmas. 2022 quarterfinalist defeated Martin Schindler in straight sets on Sunday evening to reach the third round in 2025 PDC World Darts Championships.
In fact, it was mainly Schindler’s doubles abomination that was the key to Rydz’s wild victory as he advanced to the final 32. That’s not to say the Englishman is complaining as he moves on to face Dimitri van den Bergh after Christmas.
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“It means a lot to me. I mean, I just found out he beat us 12 times in a row! But listen, next year he can beat me another 50 times, that’s the most important thing,” recalled “Riot” after the match, referring to his terrible result in the match against Schindler before Sunday evening’s match. “I’m not someone who usually gives it my all, but it meant a lot to me.”
After performing in the first round with an average of 107, Rydz was no longer as electrifying against Schindler. However, with an average of just over 91 and 3 maximums, the Englishman was still too much for the German number one. “I think I should have won the first set easier than I did. “I know he missed nine and I was rooting for that game to go to the end, but when I won that game I thought, ‘Yeah, that could happen today,'” he said. explains. “I get goosebumps when I hear them chanting my name. It was just amazing. Playing here and winning games is the most important thing for me, so yes, I felt really good.”
Rydz in action
Although his skills have never been questioned, Rydz has struggled with the mental side of the game in the past. Lately, however, and especially during this tournament, the 26-year-old has been trying to stay positive regardless of the situation. “Like I said, if everything stays positive at home, you know, clear head, I can do some damage here,” he says. “I know if my game is successful, I can mix it with anyone. So listen, when I come back after Christmas, as long as I don’t have too many pigs and blankets, everything should be fine!”
