Nathan Aspinall has spoken out on social media following his defeat to Jermaine Wattimena in the Players Championship 31 final. The Dutchman mounted a stunning comeback to win 8-2 and secure his second ranking title of the campaign.
‘The Asp’ was in excellent form at Tuesday’s Pro Tour event in Wigan, delivering not one but two perfect legs during his march to the final. The 34-year-old fired nine-dart finishes in his 6-4 triumph against Steve Lennon in the second round and again in his 6-5 victory over Lukas Wenig in the last 16.
Aspinall surged into an early 2-0 advantage against Wattimena in the final. The Englishman looked poised to secure his spot at the 2025 Ladbrokes Players Championship Finals in Minehead, but his rival roared back with eight consecutive legs.
Moments after stepping away from the oche, Aspinall shared his thoughts on the day’s action. Showing his true colours, the world No.23 praised Wattimena for his performance, insisting the Dutchman ‘fully deserved’ the victory.
On Instagram, Aspinall wrote: “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.”
During a chat with the PDC, Wattimena reflected on the words of wisdom he received from Stephen Bunting. The 37-year-old, who secured his maiden Pro Tour crown in July, said: “I cannot describe how good I feel.
“I survived a lot of match darts in the first round, and after that I played amazing, so I am really happy with this win. I remember what Stephen Bunting said to me when I lost to him in the final in Leicester.”
Wattimena continued: “He said: ‘When you win one, you will win more’, and now I have my second title. I have beaten some brilliant players today. I have more belief in myself now, and I think I’m a dangerous player for everyone!”
Meanwhile, Luke Littler tumbled out in the first round following a 6-4 defeat to Ritchie Edhouse. The 18-year-old, who sits 67th in the Players Championship rankings, has only three floor tournaments remaining to book his spot at the Finals.
‘The Nuke’ has been beaten in both of his most recent matches, following an unexpected loss to Beau Greaves in the World Youth Championship on Monday. Having said that, Littler recently won the World Grand Prix.
Now under fresh representation, the teenage prodigy will be eager to put things right. Following his switch to Target Darts, Littler said: “Target has been part of my career from the very beginning, and I’ve always had a great relationship with everyone there.
“I’m really happy to have their backing as I continue to focus on my game and prepare for the big tournaments ahead.”
A spokesperson for Target said: “We’ve worked closely with Luke and his family for many years and are proud to have been part of his incredible journey.
“Luke’s professionalism, focus, and natural talent make him a truly special player, and we’re committed to providing the support and structure he needs to reach even greater heights.”