“I’m here to stay and can push on now” – Damon Heta confirms return to Australia is off the cards
Damon Heta has made a strong start at the 2025 Grand Slam of Darts, immediately showing he’s ready for the challenges this prestigious tournament brings. After his 5–1 win over Martin Lukeman in the opening group game, the Australian spoke openly about his first victory, his plans to stay in the UK, and his commitment to the Movember campaign.
A vital opening win
“It’s just the win, mate. That’s all that matters,” said Heta after his first match in Wolverhampton. “It could’ve been a 130 average or a 70 — it doesn’t matter. You get the win, you get out of your group, that’s all that matters.”
The Aussie admitted that recent results on stage hadn’t gone his way, but insisted the work never stops. “I’ve been playing half-decent, I guess. There’ve been moments where things haven’t gone my way, but I’m always putting the hard work in behind the scenes. That’s just what I do — work hard and hope the results follow.”
Heta also underlined how crucial a good start can be in a short format like the Grand Slam. “That first game is massive. The bull-up can be really important because it’s cutthroat out there. You just need those couple of wins to get through.”
Building a life in the UK
Originally, Heta planned to earn his PDC Tour Card, make some money, and then return to Australia. Those plans, however, have clearly changed.
“Things have changed, haven’t they?” he said. “There’s so much on offer here that going home and leaving that behind would be a bit silly. My wife’s on board too, so we’re staying here for a while and seeing where it goes.”
He added that resolving personal matters behind the scenes has helped him settle. “It’s nice to have that weight off my mind. It solidifies that I’m here to stay and I can push on now — live life properly, you could say.”
Movember: more than just a moustache
Alongside his darts commitments, Heta is again supporting Movember, raising awareness and funds for men’s health.
“Movember comes around every year, doesn’t it? I’m doing my bit, but it’s all thanks to the people donating,” he said. “I’m just posting a few things, putting up a few prizes — because honestly, getting people to part with money is like pulling teeth.”
Heta said it’s an important cause within such a male-dominated sport. “Everyone knows someone who’s struggled with health or mental health. So if I can play a small part in something like that on a big stage, it’s brilliant.”
Frustrations, focus, and perspective
Despite recent ups and downs on TV, Heta remains positive about his form. “I haven’t got loads to defend really,” he explained. “I’ve played alright on TV this year — good matchplay, solid UK Open even without the result, decent Masters run. The Grand Prix could’ve been better, but my base is strong. If I go deep in a few more tournaments, I’ll be up there for a long time.”
Heta said it’s an important cause within such a male-dominated sport. “Everyone knows someone who’s struggled with health or mental health. So if I can play a small part in something like that on a big stage, it’s brilliant.”
Darts, Ashes and life balance
Known for his sense of humour and Aussie sporting pride, Heta smiled when asked about another Ashes-themed walk-on. “I’ve thought about it, yeah, but not for here. And I definitely wouldn’t bring it out at the Worlds. Different vibe — best to keep it classy.”
As for his prediction on the cricket? “4–1 Australia. You’ll maybe nick one, I’ll give you that. But you’re already 1–0 down playing in Perth first up!”
When asked whether a deep run in Wolverhampton could spark a return to his best, Heta was pragmatic. “Maybe, but I don’t think it changes much. I’m always practicing hard. It’s just the cycle of darts — peaks and troughs. My troughs aren’t that bad, my peaks are really good. You just keep going week after week. Get up there, do your best — that’s all you can do.”
