Aspinall reveals breathing routine as he battles dartitis and eyes third major title

NATHAN ASPINALL has revealed his new breathing routine to combat the dartitis affecting his throw.

The world No15 thrashed Ryan Joyce 3-0 to reach the World Grand Prix semi-finals for the first time since 2022.

Aspinall, 35, threatened to smash the tournament’s record average after producing a brilliant 105.15, falling just short of Gian van Veen’s 106.47.

The Stockport thrower also fired in SEVEN 180s and two ton-plus finishes as he continued his charge towards a third major title.

Aspinall has been working with a sports psychologist to overcome the yips and regain control of his game.

He said: “Absolutely buzzing. All day I felt so relaxed. I had a game of golf yesterday and I turned up today and I said to Ethan, who I was with, I feel so focused tonight.

“My start was unbelievable. The amount of 152s I hit in the first two sets was unbelievable. That is half the battle. If you kick off, you are putting pressure on your opponent.

“He did a Nathan there and kept battling. I was thinking I don’t want to go 2-1. I’m really happy with that performance.

“That is probably one of the best performances I have ever done in my career on the stage.

“Everyone knows I have the issue with my throw. It is there, but I have an amazing team. I have Sean and Chris. My partner Kirsty.

“Between us all, they deal with me through the good times and the bad times. This week we are doing a conscious effort with the breathing work to try and eliminate as many stops as I can.

“But when I stop it always goes in! I’m just a lot more composed this week. I feel like I can win this tournament. I feel like I am ready to win another major again.

“There is no reason I can’t.”

Aspinall returns to action at the Mattioli Arena on Saturday evening, where he will face either Gerwyn Price or Jonny Clayton for a place in the final.