Wright is saved from ‘going nuts’ at last

Peter Wright is thrilled at the prospect of returning to Alexandra Palace to defend his World Championship title after admitting he has been "down and miserable" playing behind closed doors.

The 50- year-old' s 2020 started with a bang as he won his maiden world crown, but has spent the majority of his year as defending champion by playing in sterile bubbles in Milton Keynes and Coventry due to the pandemic.

With his eccentric dress sense, which usually has a festive theme at this tournament, mohawk hairstyle and energetic walk-on, Wright, inset, is a showman and feeds off playing in front of crowds.

The Scot will get the chance to show off his individuality as the 2021 World Championship starts today - which makes him happy after a tough year.

"I am definitely looking forward to it, defending champion as well is going to be pretty special," he said. "The most important thing is that it is near Christmas and I get to go out in my Christmas outfit, on stage in front of 1,000 people.

"You couldn't have it anywhere else. If they had it at Milton Keynes or Coventry I’d have gone nuts, I’d have put myself in the loony bin.

"I have been down and miserable throughout this Covid, but the crowds get me up and make me feel happy. I am going out there for the fans and the youngsters that look up to me. I do it for them.

"It is the same for all the players, being in the bubble and being tested ever y week, having sticks shoved down your neck and up your nose. It is horrible doing that. The hotel do their best by mixing up the food, but you are just having the same food all of the time, it just drives you nuts. You are not allowed out. I didn't handle it really well, I was glad to go home, I was going nuts.

"For it to be at the Ally Pally, I am delighted, at last, to get on that great big stage.”