ROB OWEN fought back tears after retaining his tour card with a third-round win over Ricky Evans.
The Welshman 40, came from 2-1 down to beat Rapid Ricky 4-2 and set up a clash with Callan Rydz.
And in doing so he secured his PDC Tour card for the 2025 season.
Owen has been working as an Iceland delivery driver since last year – while juggling his life as a darts star.
But the world No77, whose nickname is Stack Attack, is now making a name for himself at Ally Pally.
Owen is four wins away from the world title and a £500,000 prize pot.
But he has already secured £35,000 for reaching the fourth round – and could be seen getting emotional in the wake of his win over Evans.
Owen said: “The last game was the biggest of my life but this really was! Ricky is a fantastic guy and a great player…
“Well can I say it now, can I say it? NOW I HAVE RETAINED MY TOUR CARD! COME ON.”
Owen then went on to reveal he is expected back at work on Monday, but that he will not be going.
CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS
He added: “It’s massive for me and my family – retaining my Tour card means the world to me and it’s a big relief.
“Now I can relax, enjoy myself and when I enjoy myself, I play good darts.
“I’m supposed to be back at work at 12.30 tomorrow, but I hope the bosses understand that I’m not there.
“I don’t think they have got any choice, but they are pretty good when it comes to me playing darts.”
READ MORE on all the build-up to the Ally Pally extravaganza...
All the info:
News, features and interviews:
