The 2022 World Championship final brought about more heartbreak for Michael Smith, in reaching an eighth major TV final and falling short once again, losing 7-5 to Peter Wright.
Wright himself was a nearly man for years, reaching numerous TV finals without winning, but the 2020 World Championship saw the floodgates open. Another World Title followed, along with the World Matchplay and the Masters, and Smith is looking to take inspiration from 'Snakebite' ahead of this year's trip to Ally Pally.
"People think of Peter Wright as a legend and one of the best ever to play the game, and three years ago he was in my position," said Smith.
But having finally broken his duck at November's Grand Slam, Smith is hoping the floodgates will open.
Watch the video above to hear Smith's thoughts on shaking off the 'nearly man' tag, his unforgettable match with Jonny Clayton at last year's World Championship, and his change in mentality.
