EXCLUSIVE: Stephen Bunting has opened up on the emotional impact his massive fanbase and support has on his darts when up on the stage

Stephen Bunting has opened up about the emotional impact that his massive fanbase has on him when he takes to the big stage. ‘The Bullet’ has some of the most loyal supporters among any darts players, and it’s clear what that means to him.

The world No.9 has cemented himself among the best players in the world in recent years and his bid for a second major title before the end of the year received fresh confidence with a run to the quarter-finals of the European Championship.

All roads lead to Ally Pally for the World Championship in December, where Bunting is hoping to go one further than two previous appearances in the semi-finals.

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Bunting’s games have become increasingly covered since changing his walk-on song to ‘Titanium’ by David Guetta and Sia, which brings a hair-raising rendition

Speaking exclusively to the Daily Star Sport after signing a new 10-year contract with Target Darts, Bunting thanked his fans for their incredible support and how he’s honoured to feel such love on the stage.

He said: “It’s an honour to be honest. To feel the connection I have made with my fans really helps me when I’m on the big stages. Getting behind me if things aren’t going well is a massive tool I can use to regroup.

“They are a massive part of my journey and my career and it’s amazing to hear them singing the walk on back to me when I’m on the stage. And even the messages I get from the fans win or lose.”

Reflecting on how the fans’ support can impact him on the stage, Bunting insisted that he doesn’t let his emotions get too high.

“I like to think I handle it really well. Sometimes when they sing the song back to me it really is a pinch me moment and it gets emotional for me,” he said.

“But without them I wouldn’t be where I am now and playing to a good standard and wanting to improve constantly.”

Bunting’s decade-long deal comes just two months before he takes to the stage for the biggest tournament in darts at Ally Pally.

Looking ahead to the World Championships and how his new darts will help, Bunting said on his targets for the remainder of the year: “Wanting to have a big run in all the major tournaments as well as having a strong finish to the pro tour season.

“Big steps are moving to the new Target 21g darts. I believe these will take me to more consistency and bigger titles. And keeping on top of the hypnotherapy also.”

Bunting’s new contract with Target Darts coincides with the launch of Cohort, a new loyalty programme and the first step in the company's new digital ecosystem.

It is the only programme that rewards fans for their love of darts, built around a simple 'Play More, Earn More' model.

Members are rewarded for shopping, playing and engaging with Target's experiences, unlocking greater benefits and vouchers as they progress through the tiers.