Devon Petersen thanked two former PDC stars after lifting his first PDC title at the German Darts Championship in Hildesheim on Sunday.
Petersen, who last won a game on a European Tour stage in July 2017 before last weekend's event, continued his incredible 2020 form as he became the first African player to win a PDC ranking event.
The South African number one averaged 100 for the tournament and was in reflective mood as he looked ahead his upcoming debuts in the BoyleSports World Grand Prix and BoyleSports Grand Slam of Darts.
"I've been working hard for what feels like a lifetime. Without doubt, this is an incredible moment in my life," said Petersen, who will take on Jose De Sousa in round one of the World Grand Prix.
"There's been so much hard work put in behind the scenes. I've been working with Wayne Mardle for a while now, he suggested some technical adjustments to my throw a long time ago which have improved my game massively.
"During lockdown I've been working a lot with Wayne on the psychological side of the game and I'm also in regular contact with Colin Lloyd, who has the experience of being a winner at the highest level.
"Lockdown has meant that I've been able to practice for four to six hours a day. That's time to work on your game that you never normally have with the packed calendar.
"I played well at the Summer Series and Autumn Series. Being in a position to win a title against Gerwyn Price at the Autumn Series allowed me to go all the way this time.
"It's not been an easy ride, I nearly lost my Tour Card in 2018 so to now see my name on a champion's trophy means so much.
"My focus has always been on qualifying for the World Championship every year. Playing in the World Matchplay and World Grand Prix was always a pipe dream but now it's a reality.
"I'm in great form and I feel like I can win every tournament."
