“I should never have said that” – Mensur Suljovic apologises to all women and Ross Smith following Basel episode

Mensur Suljovic has publicly apologised following the controversy at the Swiss Darts Trophy. In an Instagram statement, the Austrian addressed his conduct against Ross Smith and the subsequent stage interview. He admitted making mistakes and apologised to both his opponent and all women.

On Sunday, Suljovic had initially defended his behaviour. A day later, “The Gentle” struck a much more conciliatory tone. He said he had been swept up in the emotion of the moment while stressing that fairness and respect are part of darts.

The controversy began in the last 16 of the Swiss Darts Trophy in Basel, where Suljovic beat Smith 6–5. During the match, the Austrian repeatedly urged the crowd to cheer loudly, including while his opponent was throwing at match darts. Smith missed two chances to win and later criticised Suljovic’s conduct publicly. However, the Englishman still accepted responsibility for his defeat.

Suljovic has now shared his perspective on the disputed moments in his Instagram story. "I was really caught up in the emotion of the moment. I wanted to get the crowd on my side, and in doing so, I didn't fully realise that Ross was throwing for the match."

Looking back, he said he understood the criticism. "In hindsight, I understand that the timing was unfortunate and was perceived as unfair. I would like to apologise to Ross for that."

Suljovic thereby acknowledged that his gestures were problematic at a crucial stage of the match. He said he had wanted to win the crowd’s support, without properly considering Smith’s position at the oche.

The Austrian also emphasised his respect for his opponent. "For me, Ross is one of the best darts players in the world, and I have great respect for him and his achievements."

Suljovic also addressed his interview after beating Dirk van Duijvenbode in the quarter-finals. He had initially dismissed Smith’s complaints and defended his interaction with the crowd. Presenter Philip Brzezinski challenged him, criticising in particular the cheering during his opponent’s match darts.

During the interview, Suljovic also made a sweeping remark: “Women complain, sorry.” The Austrian has now explicitly withdrawn that comment as well.

“My statement about women in the interview was also completely inappropriate. I should never have said that. I would like to expressly apologise to all women for it.”

His apology therefore goes beyond his clash with Smith. Suljovic also acknowledges that his choice of words in the interview was wrong and clearly distances himself from the remark.

Suljovic ended his statement by turning to how people treat one another in darts. He paired his explanation for his emotional display with a commitment to sporting fairness.

“Darts thrives on emotion—but fairness and respect are just as much a part of it. Yesterday, my emotions got the better of me a little.”

Suljovic signed off with the words “I’m sorry.” After initially pushing back firmly on stage, the Austrian has now publicly sought to make amends and taken responsibility for his conduct and comments.