“I don’t have to let myself be portrayed as something I’m not” – Martin Schindler boycotting interviews with German broadcaster

Martin Schindler has once again addressed the debate surrounding his refusal to give an interview to SPORT1 in a series of detailed Instagram Stories. After his third-round exit at the 2026 World Darts Championship, the German said he wanted to “leave all the bad spirits behind” on New Year’s evening and explain once more how his decision came about. Schindler made it clear that he is not seeking confrontation, but fairness and context.

The 29-year-old stressed right at the start that his statements were unfiltered. No script, no preparation, no strategic message. He simply wanted to describe how he has perceived SPORT1’s treatment over the years—calmly, thoughtfully, and without personal attacks.

At the heart of Schindler’s criticism is what he sees as a frequently negative tone in the coverage. German players in particular have often been portrayed in an exaggerated way. Terms like “disgrace,” “no chance,” or “outclassed” were used repeatedly and, in his view, had little to do with objective analysis.

Schindler makes it clear that he explicitly accepts technical criticism. Poor performances may be called out. What bothers him is the deliberate dramatization that often seeks maximum attention. Especially on social media, he repeatedly felt that clickbait was being prioritized over context.

Schindler cites two articles in particular as examples. In one case, the headline created the impression that he had personally disrespected Luke Littler. In reality, his comments referred to fans whistling and booing at tournaments—behavior he fundamentally rejects.

Schindler explains that this criticism was deliberately directed at German fans. He considers booing disrespectful toward players who invest a lot of time, money, and energy. He holds this position regardless of the opponent’s name or nationality.

Another article picked up his statement about wanting “to become a hero.” He meant this solely in his role as a father. He wants to be a role model for his daughter, someone she can be proud of. The coverage, however, created an image of him as an overambitious self-promoter.

Drawing a clear distinction was important to Schindler. He has no issues whatsoever with SPORT1’s commentators or presenters. He explicitly mentions names like Robert Marijanovic, Basti Schwele, Philipp Brzezinski, and Max Hopp in a positive light. He also includes Katharina Kleinfeldt and Jana Wosnitza.

These individuals are not responsible for the criticized articles. Editorial and production are separate areas. Schindler expressly thanks SPORT1 for broadcasting darts in Germany free of charge over many years. SPORT1 has done a lot to grow the sport.

Despite his clear words, Schindler emphasizes that the door is not permanently closed to SPORT1. Should the broadcaster seek dialogue again in the future, he is open to a fresh start. The condition, however, is fair and clean reporting in which statements are not taken out of context.

Schindler states his position unequivocally: “I don’t have to be portrayed as something I’m not.” That is exactly where he drew the line for himself. He is not after defiance or confrontation, but self-protection and respect.

This expectation is explicitly not directed at SPORT1 alone. Schindler wants the media in general to handle quotes and context responsibly. No one wants to read a public image of themselves that has nothing to do with their reality.

For Schindler, the matter is now closed. The World Darts Championship is over, the year is done. He has presented his view and “given a wake-up call,” as he puts it. Now everyone can do with it what they will.

In closing, the German addressed his fans directly once again. He thanked them for their strong support and interest in the issue. At the same time, he called for a responsible turn of the year—with consideration for others and for emergency services.