English darts fan favourite Callan Rydz candidly called himself a “fruitcake” after whitewashing his first-round opponent at Alexandra Palace. The Geordie star, aptly nicknamed ‘The Riot’, needed just 15 minutes to see off Croatian player Romeo Grbavac 3-0 and set up a clash with Germany’s Martin Schindler.
Rydz, 26, was ruthless against Grbavac, defying his current world No.43 ranking by averaging a huge 107.06.
The 2022 quarter-finalist was his usual charismatic self throughout, entertaining fans on his stage with exuberant celebrations as well as also showing moments of frustration.
Asked in his post-match press conference if he had been guilty of lacking composure on stage this season, Rydz didn’t hold back in his response. “Yeah, definitely, but that’s me as a person,” he said.
“I’m a fruitcake, I’ll happily admit it. I’m an absolute nutcase but…it’s like I’ve said to a few people, if I waited five seconds, nothing gets said, but it’s just my personality. I like to show emotion.”
Rydz did insist he was never one to try and intimidate opponents, although did concede he needed to handle himself with more dignity after defeats. And he also sent a message to any fellow professional he may have upset during the 2024/25 campaign.
“I don’t like to give it,” he continued. “I hate giving it. I think it just drains the energy out of you. But when I get beat I think I can show a bit more respect to everyone and if I’ve disrespected anyone I’d like to apologise I now because I don’t think I’m a disrespectful person.
“I do need to see someone about that. Maybe I need to speak to someone and yeah… get off the stage so the cameras aren’t there….and do whatever. That’s one thing I need to work on and I’m trying.”
As for his scintillating form though, Rydz wasn’t about to play himself down. In fact, the three-time Players Championship event winner believes he can go all the way in the sport’s most prestigious event.
“I know if my game turns up then I can beat…anyone,” he said. “I do that for another few games then I’m world champion. Happy days like. But then, I might retire as well (laughs).”
Where Rydz wasn’t the centre of media attention was with with his entrance, despite again coming out to Hypersonic Missiles by Sam Fender. His opponent chose to mark his debut by using Raymond van Barneveld’s trademark tune of Eye of the Tiger, a decision which seemingly upset the Dutch icon.
