PDC World Darts Championship finalist's son making waves after hitting televised nine-darter - The Mirror

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Simon Whitlock has enjoyed an illustrious career, and it now looks like it's his son's time to shine. The Wizard became one of the circuit's elite when he rejoined the PDC in 2009.

He marked his calendar with a showdown against Phil Taylor in the 2010 World Darts Championship final and later clinched the European Championship over Wes Newton in 2012. Despite the gradual winding down of his top-flight days and the loss of his Tour Card, Whitlock triumphed alongside Damon Heta for Australia at the World Cup just three years ago and has competed again in Frankfurt this time around.

Yet another star from Down Under might be rising on the oche in his son, Mason, who has been causing quite a stir on the PDC Development Tour. Making headlines last year in the MODUS Super Series with a flawless nine-darter, The Apprentice even flirted with two perfect legs in a single session.

"It's been quite quick, I'd say," said Whitlock about his son's progression at the launch event for the MODUS Super Series 24/7 on Pluto TV. "It's been pretty good.

"We practice together and train together. He's done some really good things on the MODUS Super Series so far. Development Tour, he's done really well, and he's got some good stuff ahead of him.

"I've been trying to guide him in the right direction, trying to correct all the things he's doing wrong. Just supporting him as much as I can.

"I mean, he's only been over with me [in the UK] for the last five to six years. But ever since he's been over, he's wanted to play darts, and I've just tried to guide him."

The pride is palpable within the family, with The Apprentice reflecting on his rapid rise within the sport, having only started throwing during the pandemic, in a similar vein to his father.

"I'm really surprised at how quick I've picked up the game," added Mason. "But I think that just comes from watching the game, listening to dad, and understanding what I have to do and what I don't.

"So I think it's surprising how well I've done in the last few years, but there's definitely room for improvement, and that'll come as well. I want to win the World Youths this year. I want to win a MODUS Super Series this year. And I want to get my Tour Card next year. That's a lot of work, I know, but I'm ready. I know I can do it."

In defiance of the daunting prospect of living up to a successful sporting figure, Mason reveals a transformative confidence, no longer burdened by his father's shadow but emboldened by it, reports the Express.

"A couple of years ago, it did play on my mind, especially the fear that I won't live up to that name, but dad reassured me. I'm my own person," he shared.

"I like when people play good against me, not knowing me, just because of the last name. They'll play really well, which I respect. But it just makes me want to play better, and makes me want to put more hours on the board.

"So, the more people play good against me because of who my dad is, the more I want to put hours on the board. So, keep going, and it'll keep firing me up."