Michael Smith has opened up about the physical strain of life on the darts circuit.
Travel is a constant demand for professional players, particularly with European Tour events spread across the continent.
Long flights and quick turnarounds are part of the job. For Smith, however, the impact appears far more severe.
His latest post revealed just how much it is taking out of him.
Michael Smith reveals swollen feet and long-term travel impact
Smith shared a photo showing his visibly swollen feet and ankles after flying, and explained what happens to his body when he travels.
“Just want to show what happens now when I travel and what the pressure of the plane does to me,” he posted on Instagram.
“It’s not sympathy or anything, it’s just annoying because I put myself through this to play the sport I love, and it just infuriates me that I have to deal with tactics like that.”
The 2023 world champion then admitted the physical toll is becoming a mental battle as well.
Smith added, “It shouldn’t bother me, but it does because it makes me question myself: why do I bother to put up with the pain and suffering to please everyone else over my health?
“This was Sunday night, just after I landed. And this is what I have to deal with now, for no doubt the rest of my life.
“And I know flying tomorrow will be bad again for another few days before it settles again. But please ignore my trotters btw.”
While travel can be challenging for any darts professional, Smith made clear that his condition means the effects linger for days after landing.
Michael Smith’s post comes after a heated exchange following defeat
The candid update arrived shortly after Smith’s 6-3 loss against Mickey Mansell ended his hopes of qualifying for the Poland Darts Masters.
He reacted angrily on social media and criticised his opponent’s pace of play before later deleting the post.
“Imagine doing that to win a game,” Smith said on Facebook. “Tinkerbell won’t come along and move your darts for you.
“No need to stand looking at the board for 15 seconds. Horrible mentality. And a horrible player.”
The sequence of events suggests frustration on multiple fronts as Smith balances competition with the physical demands of touring.
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