Martin Schindler worked as a steward previously (Image: Getty)
Martin Schindler has revealed that he used to work as a steward prior to his darts success.
The German claimed his second-ever European Tour title over the weekend when clinching the Swiss Darts Trophy, producing a remarkable comeback to beat Ryan Searle.
Schindler found himself 7-4 down before capitalising on Searle missing a total of seven match darts to clinch the trophy and rise to 22nd on the PDC Order of Merit.
Speaking after his victory, Schindler lifted the lid on how he used to work at darts events previously before honing his craft and establishing himself as a professional.
He explained: “I’m so happy to win this title. I always believed that I have the ability to come back but I was lucky to win this one. Ryan was the better player but that’s darts sometimes.
“Ten years ago I was working as a steward on these events; I’ve worked very hard to get to where I am today and I’m proud of myself.”
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SCHINDLER IS THE CHAMP IN BASEL ??????????????????A staggering fightback is complete by Martin Schindler ??????It’s a second European Tour title for Schindler as he capitalises on missed chances by Searle to win the 2024 Swiss Darts Trophy ???????????? |
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Schindler now heads into a busy run of majors in good form, with the World Grand Prix among the biggest events to prepare for in October.
Asked about his aspirations going forward, the 28-year-old said: “I fancy myself to do well in the big TV events coming up, but today is just about winning this trophy; that’s all that matters to me now.”
Ryan Searle missed seven match darts (Image: Getty)
Searle was devastated after throwing away his 7-4 lead to lose 8-7, admitting that he ‘bottled it’ when he was on the cusp of winning his first European Tour title. He said: “It’s just one of those things, I bottled it a bit.
“That’s the way darts goes sometimes; for me, it’s a case of onto the next one. I’ve been in this position before where I’ve thrown games away and I’ve come back stronger, so I’ll be looking to respond in the same way again.”
Schindler beat Stephen Bunting and Raymond van Barneveld en route to the semi-finals, setting up a clash with Josh Rock. The Northern Irishman struggled against The Wall though and was comfortably beaten 7-2, with Schindler hitting two early 13-darters to set the tone in Switzerland.