Aspinall admits he “got in a lot of trouble” over Saudi Arabia Masters comments

NATHAN ASPINALL admits he “got in a lot of trouble” over his Saudi Arabia Masters comments.

The world No16 sparked controversy after claiming the crowd “weren’t all there of their own accord” following the World Series event at the Global Theater in January.

Aspinall, 35, insists his comments on the Riyadh event were misunderstood and says he was never unhappy with the tournament itself.

The Asp reached the semi-finals before losing 7-5 to Michael van Gerwen.

Aspinall has now clarified his remarks after revealing it was one of the best-run competitions he has ever played in.

Speaking exclusively to [247Bet](https://www.247bet.com/en-gb/sports), he said: “I wasn't unhappy with the tournament itself. The way they looked after us and treated us in Saudi Arabia, was better than any tournament I've ever played in.

“We were treated like superstars. I loved doing the walk-on. It was something different and I thought it was brilliant.

“The comment I made at the time was about the fact that the crowd itself weren't creating the same atmosphere as we’re used to.

“It came out wrong when I did my live interview, and I got in a lot of trouble for it. But what I meant was that you could tell there were a lot of complimentary tickets given out.

“The venue was full, but not with people who had bought tickets. It just felt a bit corporate. That's what I meant.”

The two-time major winner admitted the quieter atmosphere was a refreshing change, despite being used to the famous loud crowds of the UK and Europe.

He added: “I do think the tournament was a great success. I really do. It was a different atmosphere, which made it tough, but it’s always tough when you go to these places that don’t have a massive darts following.

“Bahrain is the same. America used to be the same. It’s a bit more silent.

“I think that's for one of two reasons. One is they're not really used to the darts. They probably don't watch darts that much.

“And two, they probably just respect the players a bit more than in the UK and Europe and want to just sit and watch what we have to offer.

“It is nice to play in those conditions for a change. As much as I love the louder crowds, sometimes it is nice to just look out and see people actually watching the sport.

“So I don't think I would change anything about the Saudi event. We were looked after very well, and it was well received in the end.”

Aspinall pointed to the growth of darts in America as proof that persistence can help new markets develop a stronger following.

He continued: “How else do you get more interest in the sport, apart from if you keep going back and back, and let it grow?

“We did that with America. It used to be absolutely pants playing darts in America at the start, and now we're selling out the big arena at Madison Square Garden.

“So yeah, I think with persistence, the Saudi event will come through and become better on its own.”

Words: Aaron Nijjar

Image: Taylor Lanning