Darts fans, ‘The Spartan’ is back! Cristo Reyes, the charismatic Spanish darts player, has made his much-anticipated return to the PDC Pro Tour. After a period away from the professional circuit, primarily due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, Reyes clarifies that he never truly stopped playing. Instead, the break allowed him to refocus, prioritize family, and now he’s ready to reignite his competitive fire, aiming to regain his top form and secure a spot in major tournaments once again.
The Spartan’s Journey: From the Oche to a Pandemic Pause
Cristo Reyes, known as “The Spartan” in the darts world, has made a highly anticipated return to the PDC Pro Tour after a noticeable absence. While many might have assumed he had retired, Reyes clarifies that he never fully stopped with darts. Instead, his career faced an unexpected slowdown, primarily due to the global COVID-19 pandemic and its far-reaching consequences.
Why the Break? More Than Just COVID
Reyes’s time away from the intense professional circuit wasn’t just about travel restrictions, although they played a significant role. The pandemic provided a unique opportunity for reflection and a shift in priorities.
- Travel Restrictions: Living in the Canary Islands, the stringent travel rules and frequent testing requirements made participation in UK and European tournaments incredibly challenging and costly.
- Family Focus: The forced break allowed Reyes to spend invaluable time with his family, a luxury often denied to professional athletes constantly on the road. He describes this period as a time where “family became the priority.”
- Mental Recharge: The demanding nature of professional darts can be draining. This hiatus served as a crucial mental break, allowing him to return refreshed and with a renewed perspective on the game.
The Spark for a Comeback: Reigniting the Competitive Fire
Despite the time away, the competitive spirit never truly faded for Reyes. The decision to return wasn’t sudden but a gradual rekindling of his passion for the sport.
He continued to practice at home, keeping his arm in, even if the pressure of competitive play was absent. The feeling of missing the big stage, the roar of the crowd, and the challenge of facing the world’s best became too strong to ignore. His return signifies a “renewed passion” and a clear intent to climb back up the rankings.
What’s Next for The Spartan? Goals and Aspirations
Reyes isn’t just returning to make up the numbers; he has clear objectives for his comeback.
His immediate goals include:
- Re-establishing Himself: Earning enough prize money to secure his spot on the Pro Tour and participate consistently in events.
- Qualifying for Majors: Aiming to reach prestigious tournaments like the UK Open, European Championship, and most importantly, the PDC World Darts Championship.
- Enjoying the Game: Beyond the results, Reyes emphasizes the importance of enjoying the competitive environment again, playing with freedom and confidence.
Fans can expect to see a determined Cristo Reyes, eager to prove that his time away has only made him stronger and more focused. The Spartan is back, and he’s ready to battle for every point.
Source: Based on an article from News – Dartsnieuws.com.
