Martin Schindler, the top seed at the European Darts Championship in Dortmund, reflects on his journey from a promising talent to Germany’s best darts player. He discusses overcoming fears, managing expectations, and highlights his notable achievements this year, including two European Tour victories and a perfect 9-dart game. As he prepares for the tournament, Schindler aims to advance beyond previous first-round exits, aspiring to be among the top 16 in the world by year’s end.
Martin Schindler will enter the European Darts Championship in Dortmund as the top seed, showcasing his ascent as Germany’s leading player. In this insightful interview, he discusses overcoming fears, managing expectations, and his vision of the perfect game.
Interviewer: Reflect on the past decade. At that time, you were an emerging talent, but not yet a professional. Working at tournament entrances for extra cash, what do you think your younger self would say about your journey since then?
Martin Schindler: He would likely say, ‘I’m really proud of you, Martin. Look at what you’ve achieved.’ Back then, I never truly believed I could reach such heights; it felt incredibly distant.
Interviewer: This year, you became the first German to secure two titles on the European Tour. Did you anticipate this success?
Schindler: After winning in Riesa, I started to feel that a second victory was within reach. However, if you had asked me at the year’s start about the European Tour, I wouldn’t have predicted that I’d finish with two titles. I was hopeful for my first title, but to claim two already, and the year isn’t over, is remarkable.
Interviewer: You achieved a 9-darter this year. How significant was that milestone for you?
Schindler: It was a pivotal moment. It confirmed to me that I could play at my best, especially in front of an audience, marking a major mental breakthrough. A few years ago, after hitting six perfect darts, the pressure of potentially achieving a 9-darter would weigh heavily on me.
Interviewer: Some Professional Darts Corporation tournaments still lack spectators. You initially felt more comfortable in this environment than at larger events. What led to your change in perspective?
Schindler: I examined my mentality and realized fear was the root of my struggles on stage—fear of embarrassment, defeat, or making a fool of myself. I asked myself, what’s the worst that could happen? Even if I were to lose 6-0 in the first round, it might bring some online ridicule, but that’s all. Each day is a fresh start. I’ve learned to confront my fears, handle losses more gracefully, and navigate various situations more effectively.
Interviewer: Having been Germany’s number one since April and ranked 21st worldwide, how do you view your standing among the best?
Schindler: I see my progress. I have confidence in my ability to defeat higher-ranked players. That’s why I believe I can aim for the top. If I reach the finals in a major tournament or secure a win, climbing into the top 10 is within reach. The gap isn’t as daunting as it was a year ago, and despite the pressure of a big title, I believe I can compete with anyone.
Interviewer: You are the first German ever seeded number one at this European Championship, ahead of renowned players like Michael van Gerwen and Luke Humphries. What does this mean to you?
Schindler: It feels great, but I recognize that it’s a result of my consistent performance while others faced obstacles. Winning two titles has definitely played a role. Being among the top five is a significant honor. Qualifying for this tournament means facing formidable opponents, but my seeding allows me to avoid the likes of Littler and van Gerwen until the semis.
Interviewer: You’ve struggled to progress beyond the first round at the European Championships before.
Schindler: I’m aware of this, and I told my wife playfully, ‘I can’t wait to win my first match in Dortmund.’ So far, I’ve encountered tough opponents, and luck hasn’t been on my side. I’m optimistic that this time will be different, and I look forward to competing in Dortmund.
Interviewer: With four significant tournaments left this year, including the World Cup, what would you consider a successful finish to the season?
Schindler: I’m already satisfied with 2024, but reaching the round of 16 at the World Cup would be a great goal, with aspirations of advancing to the quarter-finals. I want to continuously challenge myself and improve. If I can finish the year ranked among the top 16 globally, I’d