The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) has responded to Nathan Aspinall’s recent comments regarding the audience at the Saudi Arabia Darts Masters. Aspinall had suggested that not all attendees were present willingly during the tournament’s commencement.
The event kicked off with notable players such as Luke Littler, Michael van Gerwen, and Luke Humphries participating alongside Aspinall. Following his victory against Lourence Ilagan, Aspinall shared his perspective on the event’s ambiance, highlighting that there is room for improvement.
In response to Aspinall’s remarks, the PDC clarified that all spectators present were enthusiastic fans. They explained that this tournament marked a unique darts experience for many attendees, resulting in a different atmosphere compared to traditional darts events in the UK and Europe.
Reigning world champion Luke Littler also commented on the tournament’s atmosphere after defeating Paul Lim, noting the quieter environment compared to his usual experiences. Despite the differences, Littler remains focused on his performance and anticipates a shift in the atmosphere as the event progresses.
The PDC expressed delight at the strong interest shown by attendees at their debut event in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing that all spectators were ticket holders or guests. This response aims to address any concerns regarding the audience’s composition and reaffirm the positive reception of the tournament.
As the Saudi Arabia Darts Masters unfolds, players and fans alike continue to observe and adapt to the unique setting, showcasing the growing popularity of darts in new markets.