James Wade being monitored in hospital after feeling 'extremely unwell' at European Open

By Sports Desk May 11, 2022

James Wade is recovering in hospital after feeling "extremely unwell" following Sunday's quarter-final victory over Ryan Searle at the European Open.

The world number five, who had been due to face Dimitri Van den Bergh in the semi-finals, withdrew from the event and was taken to a hospital in Leverkusen on advice from paramedics.

He experienced a racing heart, high blood pressure, nausea, and dizziness, and will continue to be observed and treated until he is fit enough to fly back home.

Wade's wife Samantha, who is at home with their child, is grateful for the treatment the 11-time major winner has received.

"It was very worrying on Sunday night and into Monday and it is horrible to think of James there by himself when he has been so poorly," she said in a statement on Wednesday.

"Clearly we want him home as quickly as possible, but the medical staff have been amazing with James and he is hugely grateful for the compassion and care they have shown.

"We are taking their advice on when it will be safe for him to return home.

"James is desperate to make sure he doesn't let anyone down and is already talking about returning to competitive action for the people that have bought tickets.

"Whilst that is his nature, I am sure everyone would agree that him making a full recovery is the important thing and we will be taking it day by day.

"But I know he will be itching to play as soon as physically possible."

Wade was due to compete in round 14 of the Premier League darts in Sheffield on Thursday, with Joe Cullen his scheduled quarter-final opponent.

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