“I understand why players don’t travel over here” – Stephen Bunting ‘really hurt’ as whistling row erupts again in Germany

Stephen Bunting has hit out at a small group of German spectators after his exit from the European Darts Trophy, insisting those who want to whistle and boo should “go and watch football.”

The tournament in Göttingen was overshadowed by disruptive behaviour from a handful of fans who repeatedly whistled as players prepared to throw — particularly when English competitors were at the oche.

The situation became so disruptive that respected master of ceremonies Philip Brzezinski stepped in to address the crowd directly, warning that the “four or five” individuals responsible were not welcome at the event.

The tension reached its peak during the deciding leg of Bunting’s dramatic 6–5 second-round defeat to German star Niko Springer. Referee Huw Ware was forced to pause the match and angrily tell the crowd to stop the noise so the players could continue.

After the match, Brzezinski also condemned the behaviour, saying a small group had ruined what had otherwise been a fantastic contest. He stressed that such behaviour had no place in darts and made it clear those responsible were not welcome.

Whistling during matches has become an increasing problem in recent years and remains difficult for organisers to control. The issue has not been limited to European events either, with both Luke Littler and Luke Humphries also experiencing similar interruptions during a recent night of Premier League Darts in Nottingham.

Incidents like these are one reason some players — including reigning world champion Littler — occasionally choose to skip certain European Tour events in Germany.

Following his defeat, Bunting took to social media to express his frustration. While congratulating Springer on a strong performance, he said the behaviour of a small minority had taken the shine off the match.

The former BDO World Darts Championship champion also reminded fans of the sacrifices players make to compete. Bunting explained that after finishing the Premier League event in Nottingham, he set off early the next morning and travelled via Frankfurt before completing a two-hour train journey just to reach Göttingen in time for the tournament.

He stressed that while the overwhelming majority of supporters are respectful and supportive, booing and whistling at crucial moments crosses the line. If people want to behave that way, he said, they would be better off attending a football match.

Despite his disappointment, Bunting was keen to emphasise that he still appreciates the many genuine fans in Germany. The popular “Bullet” has enjoyed memorable moments there in the past — including a victory on a Premier League Darts night in Berlin — and hopes to return to perform in front of supportive crowds again in the future.