“It’s a relief” — Paul Krohne celebrates first European Tour win and now faces Josh Rock

Paul Krohne reached an important milestone at the European Darts Trophy 2026 in Göttingen. The German youngster won 6-4 against Cameron Menzies in the first round, sealing his first European Tour victory at the third attempt.

For Krohne, the result is another step forward in an already impressive season. The German is in peak form, having recently won the Dutch Open 2026, the world’s largest darts tournament, and has already claimed two titles on the NEXT GEN Tour this season.

After the match, Krohne took questions on stage from MC Philip Brzezinski. The 25-year-old German spoke candidly about what this first European Tour success means to him.

“It’s a relief,” said Krohne. “I think I didn’t play badly the last two times either. Now I’m living a bit off Cammy’s mistakes, but I win it and I’m over the moon.”

Krohne did in fact benefit from his Scottish opponent’s doubling woes. Menzies missed 22 chances on the outer ring overall, repeatedly handing opportunities to the German. Krohne took one of them to close out the match on double 8.

Asked about the many missed doubles by his opponent, Krohne responded with a smile: “Yeah, luckily,” he said with a grin. “I’m just glad that one went in.” As he spoke, he pointed to his match dart, which was still lodged in the board during the interview.

The win booked Krohne’s place in the second round. However, a much bigger test awaits there: in the first match of the Saturday evening session, he faces Premier League star Josh Rock.

For Krohne, the game will be a new challenge not only in sporting terms. While around 300 spectators were in the arena for the Friday afternoon session, roughly 4,000 fans are expected in the evening.

The German is still relishing the atmosphere. “I just enjoy being up here,” Krohne told the crowd. “I hope you’re having fun — I’m having fun.” The remark was met with loud cheers from the fans in the arena.