ASPINALL OPENS UP ON DARTITIS STRUGGLES
13/04/2025 By Aaron Nijjar
By Aaron Nijjar
NATHAN ASPINALL has opened up about his dartitis and mental health in a classy post-match interview.
Two-time major winner Aspinall was first affected by the cruel psychological condition, which leaves players unable to throw their darts, during a Premier League clash against Peter Wright back in 2023.
World No. 7 Aspinall was left in tears that night but has been winning his battle with the condition – also known as “the jitters” or the “yips” – over the last few years.
‘The Asp’s’ ongoing battle with dartitis serves as inspiration for others affected by the mental block, all of whom he’s happy to help out.
Speaking after victory in Night Ten of the Premier League darts, the 33-year-old said: “I try and give as much back as I can.
“Because at the end of the day, I’m not gonna be around here for long.
“And I see the kids that are in my academy at the moment, oh my God, [they’re] ridiculous.
“And there’s a lot of people who when I do an exhibition and we do a meet and greet, I’d probably say 5 per cent of them go, ‘I know someone that’s got dartitis, can you help them out?’
“Every single case is different. And the sad thing is, there’s so many kids out there who have got dartitis.
“And it breaks my heart because I know what I’m going through as a grown adult.
“Obviously, their dartitis is different to mine. They can’t be stressed about paying a mortgage or whatever.
“There’s is different and it breaks my heart because I want them to enjoy it.
“But I try and help as many people as I can and I’m a big advocate for mental health, I really am.
“I’ve spoken to the PDC, the PDP, and they’re getting on board now to try and do a bit more for the players and other people.
“I feel like I’m being a bit of a role model. And you know, I’m proud of that.”
Image by Taylor Lanning.
