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Stephen Bunting reveals how time in North Wales caravan park helped him bounce back after World Matchplay

Originally posted on Dartsnews.com | Last updated Aug 9, 2025 11:17 AM ET

Stephen Bunting’s commanding 6-1 victory over Australian debutant Brody Klinge in the opening round of the 2025 Australian Darts Masters was a clear statement that the world number four has shaken off recent disappointments and found his rhythm again. But behind that dominant performance lies a story of rest, recovery, and the importance of downtime, far from the glare of the TV cameras and darts arenas.

After a disappointing outing in New York and a quarter-final run at the World Matchplay, Bunting was determined to put things right in Australia. “I made sure 100% that I was ready for today,” he explained in his post-match press conference afterwards. “We’ve had a few days to acclimatise over here in Australia and, yeah, I feel really fresh. The body clock feels good, and I’m ready to go and win this tournament hopefully.”

Facing Brody Klinge, a familiar name on the Australian darts circuit making his TV debut, was no walk in the park. Klinge, who’d recently been averaging over 100 and had won a few local events, showed glimpses of promise, including a stunning 161 checkout in leg six — his only leg of the match. Yet Bunting’s clinical consistency and ton-topping scoring proved decisive, averaging 101.3 to seal a 6-1 win. “I didn’t know that much about him, but I did read the write-up on the PDC,” Bunting said. “I knew it was going to be a difficult game... There was no stone left unturned and I’m so happy to get over the line.”

“After the Matchplay, I was able to get to the caravan"

Bunting’s journey to this point, however, has not been without its challenges. He candidly reflected on the fatigue that caught up with him during a demanding season. “It’s been a tough season so far,” he admitted. “After the Matchplay, I was able to get to the caravan, relax, have a few days off — just totally without darts — and yeah, it’s great to come out here, have a few days off, and be able to go around the zoo, spend some time with my manager.”

The caravan getaway, located just over an hour from his home in North Wales, offered Bunting a much-needed sanctuary. “It’s just a getaway. Obviously, you don’t have the stress of home life. I can go there and just enjoy myself, chill, and relax — recuperate really — and get ready for the busy back end of the season.”

Managing Fatigue

For a player who has been grinding the circuit for years and is now 40, managing energy levels and fatigue has become crucial. “I’m not a young whippersnapper like I was 20 or 25 years ago,” Bunting remarked. “I get tired, and it’s easy to see in some of the performances I’ve had. I was disappointed with the Matchplay losing to Johnny, but I think I put a bit of pressure on myself as well. We’re really close in the rankings, so sometimes you can get drawn into that. It’s about doing what I need to do better to get the best out of me.”

Looking ahead, Bunting is keenly aware that maintaining fitness and mental sharpness will be key to finishing the season strong. “For the rest of the season, I need to make sure that I’m 100% fit, I feel good in myself, and I can produce my best darts at the right times. That’s what I’m trying to do.”

Family, Support, and Staying Grounded

Away from the darts board, Bunting emphasised the importance of his family and support network in keeping him grounded during the pressures of a global darts career. “Obviously, I’ve got a young family as well, and not many players have that. So I’ve got to look after the family as well as looking after myself and make sure I’m right. I’ve got a great family behind me, I’ve got good management behind me, and yeah, I’m really looking forward to the rest of the season.”

The fan support at the tournament was another huge boost, especially given that Bunting was competing far from his St Helens roots. “The crowd today was unbelievable, to be honest. I saw all the signs with ‘Bunting’ in the crowd, and a million miles away from home, to have that support really does pull me through matches like this.”

Lifestyle Choices: Weight, Fitness, and Maintaining Form

On a lighter note, the topic of weight and lifestyle came up, especially with contemporaries like Gerwyn Price making headlines for major weight loss. Bunting was pragmatic about his own approach. “I don’t want to change too much. Jim Williams has said he lost too much weight and is trying to put it back on, eating extra pudding! I just feel great in myself at the minute and I’m enjoying my darts.”

With his form returning and confidence high, Bunting is already looking forward to his next challenge: a showdown against fellow top seed Rock. “I want to be in the Premier League and the World Series for a lot more years to come. I know I need to work hard, but I’m willing to do that to make sure I stay in that position.”

For now, Bunting’s victory over Klinge — powered by an electric 101.3 average and moments of clinical finishing — is a reminder that rest and balance off the oche can be just as crucial as the darts thrown on it. The North Wales caravan, a quiet refuge from the hectic tour life, might just be the secret weapon helping one of darts’ most experienced campaigners to bounce back stronger than ever.