Nathan Aspinall hits two nine-darters however loses after heartfelt determination
Nathan Aspinall has broken his silence on social media after a gutting defeat in the Players Championship 31 final despite hitting two nine-darters days after announcing a heartfelt decision
Nathan Aspinall has spoken out on social media following his defeat to Jermaine Wattimena in the Players Championship 31 final.
The Dutch ace staged a comeback to secure an 8-2 victory and claim his second ranking title of the season at the Pro Tour event in Wigan on Tuesday.
However, ‘The Asp’ had a stellar day of darts, delivering two perfect legs during his journey to the final. The 34-year-old achieved nine-dart finishes in his 6-4 triumph over Steve Lennon in the second round and in his 6-5 victory against Lukas Wenig in the last 16.
Aspinall took an early 2-0 lead against Wattimena in the final and the Englishman seemed poised to secure a spot at the 2025 Ladbrokes Players Championship Finals in Minehead, but his opponent retaliated with eight consecutive legs.
Shortly after stepping away from the oche, Aspinall reflected on his performance for the day. In a show of sportsmanship, he praised Wattimena for his performance, stating that the Dutchman ‘fully deserved’ the win.
On Instagram, Aspinall posted: “Had a fantastic day today, but unfortunately, I just fell short at the final hurdle. Congratulations to Jermaine, who played a brilliant final and fully deserving winner.
“On a personal note buzzing with the way I played today and jumped up the rankings to be back in the players’ championship finals. And making today’s performances even sweeter was hitting not just one night darter but two… just in case you didn’t see.
“GET UP! ! Off out for a nice Ruby now, and we go again tomorrow. The Asp.”
Aspinall’s run to the final comes just days after he followed suit of Luke Littler, announcing he would leave ZXF Sports Management after the World Championships. ‘The Asp’ signed with Martin Foulds’ company in 2017 before winning the UK Open in 2019 and World Matchplay in 2023.
Taking to Instagram, Aspinall paid tribute to ZXF as he shared his best memories with Foulds. He wrote: “After 8 incredible years with ZXF sports management, I’ll be parting ways with them after the conclusion of this year’s world championships.
“I signed with Martin in 2017 as an unknown and with his amazing generosity, commitment, friendship and management skills he helped transform me into a 2 x Major winner, multiple major finals, as well as reaching the Top 4 in the world rankings.
“We have had many laughs along this amazing journey, travelled the world together, seen some amazing places and of course lots of successes and you have not only been my manager but one of my closest friends.
“What you have done for me and my family I will be forever grateful and from the bottom of my heart thank you for all you have done for me.
“I’m looking forward to signing this 8 year relationship off with a bang over the last few months of the season, aswell as excited about what the future has in store for The Asp.”
Foulds posted his own tribute to Aspinall as he wrote: “As we now part ways in a management capacity, it doesn’t feel like an ending at all.
“It’s just the next chapter — one built purely on friendship, respect, and everything we’ve shared along the way.
“Here’s to the memories we’ve made, and to many more still to come. Friends first and always.”
It remains to be seen who will manage Aspinall next. Meanwhile, Littler announced a deal to be represented by Target Darts.
