MICHAEL Smith has won his first major after triumphing in the final of the Grand Slam of Darts.
Smith, known, as Bully Boy, was elated as he clinched the title with a 16-5 victory over Nathan Aspinall.
Smith had previously lost eight major finals - but the victory finally put an end to that run and he lifted the Eric Bristow trophy in front of fans, including wife Daga and sons Michael Junior and Kasper.
Asked afterwards by Sky Sports, how he felt, Smith said: "I don't know how to celebrate - I'm used to giving the runner up speech.
"I'm now the cat, I've used my ninth life and finally I've got it with this one.
"I'm over the moon and overjoyed. No one can call me a bottle job anymore. They can't take this away from me.
"I did play well - my doubles went in and every time I got a shot I checked it.
"I don't know what to say.
"I was nervous playing Nathan, but he started missing doubles and that let me in."
Aspinall, meanwhile, warned that the rest of the tour is "in trouble" now that Michael has won his first major.
Smith added: "The hard work starts again - and now I've got this one who knows."
Later he added: "It's a big weight off my shoulders - it shuts everyone up."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here