"This is what I needed, probably my proudest moment": Nathan Aspinall ranks European Darts Trophy win above World Matchplay

Nathan Aspinall surged past Ryan Joyce 8-4 in the final of the 2025 European Darts Trophy to claim a maiden European Tour title in a run that has been coming for 'The Asp'.

Aspinall has not won a title since the World Matchplay in 2023 and after a period in the darting doldrums, he can look up again with confidence and a new light. He spoke afterwards and admitted that it ranks higher due to the significance it could have on his career.

From saying he could retire, Aspinall has turned it around and has been a heroic story. He hit an incredible 170 en route to claiming the title against Gary Anderson to force a decider which he won.

Aspinall said that in particular had the most significance for his run and ranked above the UK Open one which saw him scoop his first major with the checkout to beat Rob Cross. A weekend to remember for the popular Asp.

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"It's only took ten years honest to god, I've had a good day today. That 170 against Gary unbelievable, but can I just say without you guys today getting me through this. When I'm losing you're shouting for me. Look at that wow, from the bottom of my heart thank you so much. It means so much," said Aspinall.

"When I had that 35 to beat Gary my hand was going like this (shaking) and I had 15 minutes to prepare for the game. This is Ryan's first final, this is only my second. Ryan's a great guy, I'm happy to share the final stage with Ryan but for me personally, it's been a s*** few years for me but this is what I needed. It makes me believe in myself that I'm still good enough to compete with these boys. It means a lot to me and roll on Van Gerwen on Thursday night."

"I said it when I walked off, that 170 was better than the UK Open 170 (to win the title). I won that match and I walked off and said if I don't win this tonight, I'll never win a Euro Tour, it was written in the stars."

“Because of the situation I’ve been in over the last few years with the injuries and the dartitis, this is probably my proudest moment," he continued on stage after Joyce was spoken to.

“The crowd were unbelievable. The support I got was amazing. This honestly means so much to me.”

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