Aspinall enjoying resurgence with hunger back at World Grand Prix: "I thought my career was over"

Nathan Aspinall is feeling reborn again in the run up to his second round match against Danny Noppert at the World Grand Prix.

Aspinall defeated fourth-seeded Michael Smith on Tuesday night and overcame a series of missed match darts to record his first double-in tournament win since 2019.

The 31-year-old darts player now faces Noppert in a battle between the former UK Open champions. Aspinall, who is competing in the World Grand Prix for the fourth consecutive time, has seen a remarkable rebound in recent months, after a difficult season in 2021.

Aspinall suffered a serious wrist injury last year, which it was feared could threaten his career.

“I am making good money doing something that I love, and obviously with my wrist [injury], I thought my career was over," said Aspinall.

“Now I have got this lifeline, I feel rejuvenated. I feel like I felt in 2018 when I had just won my Tour Card.

“I want to prove to everyone that I can be good, and I think the results speak volumes.

“I have won two ProTours, made so many semi-finals on the European Tour, and I’ve got that hunger back.

“My wrist is nearly back to full fitness. I can do three or four hours a day of practice, and I’m not far off being back to my best.”