“Gary is a legend of the sport” – Niko Springer relishing Gary Anderson test at European Darts Grand Prix

Niko Springer is through to the second round of the 2026 European Darts Grand Prix after a 6-1 win over Robin Masino, but delivered a brutally honest verdict on his own performance after the match.

“From the result, yes, but in terms of performance I wouldn’t say it was a big step forward,” the German said in conversation with Dartsnews.com afterwards, offering a measured assessment despite progressing.

It is a theme that has followed Springer in recent weeks. At the German Darts Grand Prix in Munich, he had already pointed to similar issues. “I had a similar situation to last week and couldn’t quite execute it the way I wanted to,” he explained. “In the end I won, and that’s what counts.”

Looking at the statistics afterwards came as something of a surprise, even to Springer himself. “I was a bit surprised by the average,” he admitted, underlining how different the match had felt on stage. “The feeling wasn’t good at all.”

What ultimately carried him through were his finishing doubles, which proved decisive at key moments. “I would say the doubles saved me a little bit,” Springer said openly.

He also acknowledged the role of his opponent in creating a demanding contest. “He did a really good job,” Springer said of the debutant, who applied pressure at various stages.

Even so, the self-criticism remained clear. “In the end I’m just not that satisfied with my performance.”

A key theme for Springer remains his still unfamiliar role as the favourite. Against debutants or lower-ranked players, expectations have shifted, bringing a different kind of pressure. “I’m still trying to grow into that a bit,” he explained.

The contrast is clear in how he experiences matches depending on the opponent. “I think it’s very obvious that I find it much easier to play against someone who is above me,” he said, describing how he can play more freely in those situations.

That changes when the pressure is on him. “I still struggle with that. It’s an unfamiliar situation for me.”

Recognition of his growing reputation is also beginning to show. Ahead of the tournament, a fellow player had admitted on the Checkout Podcast that he would rather avoid facing Springer. Springer took that as a positive. “That’s a bit of recognition as well. Of course it’s nice to hear something like that. It motivates me a little bit.”

In the second round, the challenge steps up significantly. Springer now faces Gary Anderson, one of the sport’s most established names and a two-time world champion.

Despite the stature of his opponent, Springer is focused on the task ahead. “I’m definitely very motivated,” he said, while also acknowledging the level he expects to face. “I expect a high-quality game from him, so I’ll need to improve significantly.”

Maintaining focus on his own performance will be key. “I try to focus on myself. I want to win,” Springer added. “If I think too much about who I’m playing, then I’m already influenced mentally.”

At the same time, he is aware of the occasion. “Gary is a legend of the sport. It’s always something special to play against someone like that.”

After a far from convincing start, Springer now has the opportunity to deliver a far more complete performance on one of the biggest stages.