Dave Gilbert Fancies World Championship Challenge After Rocky Season
The Metro reports that Dave Gilbert, also known as the Angry Farmer, is relishing the opportunity to mount a World Championship challenge at the Crucible, despite a lacklustre season. According to the Metro, Gilbert has been struggling to find motivation and has had a quiet 2025, failing to qualify for several major tournaments, including the World Open, Players Championship, and Tour Championship.
The Metro notes that Gilbert’s recent form has been poor, but he has credited his friend and coach, Andy Lee, also known as The Caddy, with helping him to regain his focus. As reported by the Metro, Gilbert nearly didn’t bother playing in the World Championship, but the prospect of competing at the Crucible, a venue he loves, has reignited his passion for the game.
In an interview with the Metro, Gilbert said, "I’m really pleased to get to the Crucible. I nearly didn’t bother playing but as it comes round and you start seeing it on the tele you think, ‘Oh bloody hell I actually want to be at the Crucible.’ It’s a special place, you know." The Metro reports that Gilbert has admitted to not putting in the hard work required to compete at the highest level, but he is eager to prove himself at the World Championship.
The Metro states that Gilbert has had an encouraging start to the season, but his form has tailed off in recent months. However, he has a history of performing well at the Crucible, having reached the semi-finals in Sheffield last year. According to the Metro, Gilbert believes that he has a good chance of causing an upset against some of the top players, but acknowledges that he will need to improve his game to beat the very best.
As reported by the Metro, Gilbert has promised to give it his all and is excited to compete at the Crucible. The Metro notes that he will face Si Jiahui in his opening match, starting on Monday night. Gilbert’s comments, as reported by the Metro, suggest that he is determined to make a deep run in the tournament, saying, "I want to give it a real crack. I’m excited to walk out."
The Metro reports that Gilbert’s form has not been good enough to beat one of the top players on the planet, but he fancies his chances against other members of the top 16. As quoted by the Metro, Gilbert said, "I need to avoid the real big hitters, they’ll murder me the way I’m playing at the minute, but there’s a few in there I fancy giving a game." The Metro notes that Gilbert’s comments suggest that he is focused on making a strong impression at the World Championship.
In conclusion, the Metro reports that Dave Gilbert is ready to mount a World Championship challenge at the Crucible, despite a rocky season. As reported by the Metro, Gilbert has credited Andy Lee with helping him to regain his focus and is eager to prove himself at the World Championship. The Metro notes that Gilbert’s form has been poor, but he is determined to make a deep run in the tournament.
