'People are judged on TV titles, It doesn’t matter how many Pro Tours': Stephen Bunting has eyes set on bigger prize

Stephen Bunting’s sensational 2025 season continued in Milton Keynes as he claimed his fifth title of the year at Players Championship 25, overcoming a gruelling schedule to lift yet another trophy.

Bunting, who also reached the final the previous day before losing out to Jeffrey de Graaf, admitted he was delighted to go one better this time. “I’ve played exceptional, to be fair,” said Bunting. “I was disappointed not to win yesterday. I thought Jeffrey de Graaf would have tightened up a bit, but to do two finals and obviously get one over the line, I’m really happy with that. I had some great games today, some brilliant games yesterday as well, and hopefully that keeps continuing.”

One of the standout features of Bunting’s success was his relentless scoring power, particularly his 180 hitting. “Hitting them at the right time is so important as well,” he explained. “We’re coming into the nitty-gritty part of the season, the part where everyone wants to play well, and I’m getting some wins against top, top class players. So I’m really happy with the performances. I’m over the moon. I’ll celebrate tonight – we’re going for an Indian.”

A key moment in his semi-final victory over Willie O’Connor came with a clinical 101 checkout, completing 281 in six darts. “Yeah, 100%. I feel like every game I’ve played this week I’ve been pushed. The standard of play now is so hard. If I don’t keep on the practice board and keep pushing myself, then I’ll slowly get left behind,” said Bunting. “I’m 40 years of age now, so I need to keep working hard on my game. But I’m really happy where it is at the moment, and I’m just looking forward to the rest of the season."

Fatigue and major want

Fatigue was always going to be a factor after a packed schedule which saw Bunting return from Auckland on Monday, spend just two days at home, and then head straight into action in Milton Keynes. “Yeah, very drained, to be honest,” he admitted. “It’s bound to take some effect, but thankfully I was able to show my best darts this week. I’m really happy. I’ve got media day tomorrow, I’m off Thursday, and then we’re off to Antwerp on Friday – so hopefully the fun continues.”

Despite the demands, Bunting is in no doubt he is producing the best darts of his career. “Oh, a million percent, yeah,” he said. “I know how well I’m playing. I feel like I’m giving myself more opportunities at doubles. That’s what I always prided myself on back in the BDO. When you’re playing against this calibre of player, you need that scoring, and luckily for me over the last few days, that’s been there. Long may it continue. I’ve got a great management behind me, a lovely family at home watching me, and I can’t wait to get home and see them.”

With five titles already secured this year, Bunting is now setting his sights firmly on a televised triumph. “I’d like to win another TV title. I know how well I’m playing, but people are judged on TV titles. It doesn’t matter how many Pro Tours,” he reflected. “So I’m happy to get over the line in this one. It was a bit of a slog towards the end, but just more of the same really, keep pushing towards the end of the year. Obviously the Worlds is the goal, isn’t it?”

Bunting believes his consistent form is bringing that elusive big major title within touching distance. “I just feel like I’m on a finish after nine darts in most legs. My form this week has been phenomenal. I felt like I played really well in Australia and New Zealand too – it took a 110 average off Chris Dobey to beat me there, and I had a 108. So I came away from that with a lot of confidence. Liverpool winning last night, last minute, gave me a bit of a boost for today as well. To be back in the final, knowing I was defending two finals, and then to win one – I’m really, really happy.”