Nathan Aspinall has made an emotional and deeply personal appeal to the Professional Darts Players Association, urging the body to do more to protect players who are quietly struggling under the pressures of the modern game.
Speaking candidly during the PDC World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace, Aspinall revealed that he is aware of “two or three players” who are finding life on the professional circuit extremely difficult. His comments have sparked widespread discussion across the darts community about mental health, burnout, and the relentless demands placed on elite players.
“Not Everyone Is Okay”
Aspinall, who has never shied away from discussing the realities of life as a professional darts player, stressed that the sport has changed dramatically over the years. What was once seen as a more relaxed environment has evolved into a high-stakes, high-pressure career where players are expected to perform week in, week out while constantly travelling and dealing with intense public scrutiny.
He warned that not every player is equipped to cope with those demands and said that some are suffering in silence, afraid to speak up or unsure where to turn for help.
Call for Action From the PDPA
In his plea, Aspinall urged the Professional Darts Players Association to take a more proactive role in supporting players’ mental wellbeing. Rather than waiting for individuals to reach breaking point, he believes the association should actively check in on players and ensure that proper support systems are in place.
He made it clear that his concern was not abstract or hypothetical. According to Aspinall, there are already players on the circuit who are close to walking away from the sport because the mental strain has become overwhelming.
Fear of Losing Talent
One of Aspinall’s biggest concerns is that darts could lose talented players simply because they are not being adequately supported off the oche. He warned that without intervention, the sport risks driving people away who still have so much to offer.
The Englishman described the situation as “sad” and emphasized that success, prize money, and television exposure do not automatically translate into happiness or stability.
A Broader Issue in Modern Darts
Aspinall’s comments come at a time when the Professional Darts Corporation continues to expand its calendar, increase prize funds, and raise the profile of the sport worldwide. While those developments have been hugely positive for darts, they have also intensified the pressure on players to constantly deliver results.
His plea has resonated with fans and fellow professionals alike, many of whom believe that mental health support must now be treated as a core part of the professional game, not an afterthought.
A Voice Speaking Up
By speaking openly, Aspinall has once again positioned himself as one of the sport’s most honest voices. His message was clear: darts must look after its people, not just its performances.
Whether his appeal leads to concrete action remains to be seen, but it has undeniably shone a spotlight on an issue that can no longer be ignored — that behind the walk-on music, bright lights, and packed arenas, some players are fighting battles no one can see.
