Martin Schindler has been one of the biggest success stories on the Euro Tour in 2024 and he’s put his turnaround in form down to changes in his personal life.
The Wall heads into the European Championship as the number-one seed, head of the likes of Luke Humphries and Luke Littler, after winning two events and reaching two semi-finals.
The World No. 21 has found some of his best form on the European stages and he’s pinpointed the reason.
Martin Schindler’s family helped him tackle the big stages
Schindler puts his Euro Tour success down to maturing as he brought his daughter into the world.
Speaking to the PDC, Schindler said: “I always used to have trouble playing in front of crowds; four or five years ago I was not myself on the stage, but I figured, what’s the worst that can happen?
“I think I have really matured as a human. I am a father now; I have other responsibilities.
“I have really developed in my life and I’m trying to use the experiences I’ve had in my personal life – especially with my daughter – to help me grow.
“I think the most important thing is to be patient; wait for your chance and always believe in yourself.”
Schindler plays Dirk van Duijvenbode in his opening-round match at the European Championships, which begins on October 24.
Schindler aims to make German darts history
There’s much riding on Schindler as he heads into the Dortmund event. Not only is he the top seed in his home country, but he could also make national darting history.
If Schindler were to win the whole event he would become the first player from Germany to lift a televised PDC ranking title.
Schindler told the PDC: “Winning this title would be a great achievement, it would be a moment of prestige and I’m going to work really hard to try and lift this trophy come the end of Sunday.”
Considering the slew of top German talent, including Gabriel Clemens, Florian Hempel, and Richard Pietreczko, it would be an immense achievement for the 28-year-old.