"I’m absolutely gutted, but fair play to Gezzy, the better man won": Ross Smith crestfallen as European Tour wait goes on

For Ross Smith, the story in Sindelfingen once again ended painfully. Just like two years ago, ‘Smudger’ had to settle for the runner-up spot at the European Darts Grand Prix. His first European Tour title remains elusive.

That makes the disappointment all the greater, especially given the high level Smith produced throughout the weekend. The 37-year-old Englishman opened his tournament convincingly with a 6-3 win over Cameron Menzies. In that match he threw no fewer than six 180s and hit an impressive 60 percent on the doubles. He immediately set the tone for a strong campaign in Germany.

A tense clash with Josh Rock followed. Smith averaged over 98 and eventually edged the match in a deciding leg. In the last 16 he then faced Nathan Aspinall, the winner of the German Darts Grand Prix. Despite Aspinall missing just one dart at a double, Smith kept his cool and won 6-4.

Perhaps his most impressive display came in the quarterfinals against Krzysztof Ratajski. The Pole averaged five points higher, but Smith claimed the key moments and prevailed 7-5. That put him into a European Tour final for the third year in a row — an admirable yet bittersweet statistic given the absence of a title.

In the final against Gerwyn Price, Smith looked on course for the title halfway through. After trailing 3-0 he battled back to lead 4-3 and showed he had the scoring power to pressure Price. Yet a few missed doubles ultimately proved decisive, allowing Price to seize control of the match.

Smith was visibly disappointed afterwards, but gracious in his response. “I’m absolutely gutted, but fair play to Gezzy, the better man won," said Smith.

He pointed to the fine margins at the highest level. “It’s fine margins. You’re playing the best players in the world - if you don’t hit your doubles, you’re going to get punished."

Despite the defeat, Smith also expressed his appreciation for the Sindelfingen crowd. “The crowd was absolutely amazing. Thank you for turning up all weekend, you were brilliant."

For Smith, the only option now is to look ahead. “It is what it is. I’ll crack on with the next one,” he concluded matter-of-factly.