‘People don’t see’ – Stephen Bunting opens up on A&E visit during World Darts Championship

Stephen Bunting has revealed more on his World Darts Championship struggles.

The Bullet was knocked out in the third round in the 2026 event, which was won by Luke Littler.

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The 40-year-old had been left in tears after his second round win over Nitin Kumar as he admitted he’d seen online hate on social media.

Some of this was also directed towards his son Tobias who, wholesomely, cheers on his father at events.

After the Ally Pally win, he said: “The fans were unbelievable tonight again, you feel the emotion. The walk-on was exceptional.

“I had a bit of hate online and I thought that was going to relate into the game, to be honest.

“But the fans inside the venue, they know how special they are to me and I was able to use the energy to push myself through.”

There was then further hate online during and after his shock loss to James Hurrell.

However, at the Winmau World Masters, Bunting has now explained his World Championship run was also fraught with personal issues away from the oche.

He said: “People don’t see what goes on behind the scenes. On Christmas Day, I was in A&E with Theo until 2:30 in the morning.

“I’m not one for excuses, but it wasn’t easy and things didn’t go to plan.”

Even though the World Championship didn’t go to plan, the world No.7 will take part in the Premier League.

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And Bunting is hoping to be able to put these right as he seeks to improve his form.

He added: “Listen I’m really excited for the Premier League and the rest of the season.

“I know I need to work harder and do some things differently and I’m willing to put that effort in.  

“I’ve got great management, great family, great fans and unbelievable sponsors. They’re the people who keep me strong.

“Our sport is getting better every year. Nothing is a given. If you don’t work hard, you get swept away.  

“It’s about time I grew up and accepted that I need to put the work in. I’m ready to do that.”