The German darts professional Ricardo Pietreczko achieved a sporting coup and became only the second German ever to win a tournament on the European Tour.
The 28-year-old, nicknamed Pikachu, defeated Stephen Bunting (6:4) and former world champions Michael van Gerwen (7:6) and Peter Wright (8:4) one after the other in Hildesheim on Sunday.
Wright had no chance in the final
The Scot Wright had no chance in the final because Pietreczko delivered an impeccable rate on the doubles: eight attempts, eight hits. The German newcomer had previously held his nerve against the Dutchman van Gerwen and prevailed in the close match.
“I don’t have words for it, but I know I can beat the best in the world,” said the overwhelmed surprise winner after the victory. It is the greatest success of his career to date.
Only Max Hopp with victory on the European Tour
Previously, only Max Hopp, a German, had won an event on the European Tour in Saarbrücken in 2018. Final opponent Wright from Scotland called Pietreczko a “fantastic player” and added: “I already lost my last game against him. Hopefully he doesn’t play so well next time.”
With his outstanding performance this weekend, Pietreczko also secured his ticket for the European Darts Championship, which will take place in Dortmund from October 26th to 29th. In addition to Pietreczko, from a German perspective, World Cup semi-finalists Gabriel Clemens and Martin Schindler are also there.