Following a match at the Poland Darts Masters, darts player Michael Smith found himself in a dispute with Mickey Mansell, who defeated him 6-3. In a now-deleted Facebook post, Smith criticized Mansell's playing style, accusing him of taking too long to throw darts and displaying a 'horrible mentality.' This backlash prompted Mansell, known for his methodical approach, to respond to the criticism from the reigning world champion.

The incident highlights the competitive tension within the darts community, particularly surrounding styles of play that can be perceived as unsportsmanlike or frustrating by opponents. Smith's comments suggests he feels strongly about the ethos of the game, emphasizing speed and flow over a more strategic, deliberate approach exemplified by Mansell. Such exchanges can offer insight into the personalities and mentalities of competitors at high levels of sport.

This verbal spat not only illustrates the fierce rivalries that exist in darts but also shows the broader implications of how players communicate their frustrations publicly. The fact that Smith deleted his post may indicate a realization of the potential backlash or further unwanted attention stemming from his outburst, while the situation continues to capture the interest of fans and media alike.