The biggest success of his darts career moved Martin Schindler deep into the night. "I can't stop crying. I feel like a ten-year-old, but I can't stop. I'll keep crying, but this trophy is mine," Schindler wrote on Instagram on Monday night after his 8:5 victory over Welshman Gerwyn Price in the final. The success in Riesa was the 27-year-old's first title on the PDC Tour - and then immediately on the European Tour, which is attracting increasing media attention.
Schindler's coup also saw him overtake compatriot Gabriel Clemens to become the German number one. "I always wanted to become one of the best darts players in the world. And when you win a title on the European Tour, you're one of the best players in the world," said Schindler, who is now number 22 in the world rankings, directly ahead of Clemens (23rd).
On the stage in Riesa, "The Wall", as Schindler is known, burst into tears. With the trophy in his hand, he cowered in the corner after the award ceremony. Schindler was completely overwhelmed.
Price jibes
Ex-world champion Price called Schindler a fantastic player, but couldn't help but take a jab at the title winner. "I'm crushed that I lost. But I think if this game had taken place in Wales, I would have won," said the "Iceman", who used to be a professional rugby player. While Schindler was still talking about his maiden title, Price left the stage.
Schindler, who lives in Hesse, is the third German to win an event on the European Tour after Max Hopp (2018) and Ricardo Pietreczko (2023). "It's so brutal. I've been playing the tour for about seven and a half years. I've got an awesome trophy," said Schindler. "I would never have dreamed of this. But I've worked a lot for it."
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