Niko Springer completed a sensational breakthrough by claiming his maiden European Tour title at the Hungarian Darts Trophy, edging Danny Noppert 8-7 in a dramatic final at the MVM Dome.
The unseeded German qualifier defeated six of the world’s top 20 players over the weekend, sealing his first PDC title with a composed 14-dart decider to overcome Dutch number two Noppert and book his place at the World Grand Prix.
Noppert made the stronger start in Sunday’s final, opening up a 4-2 lead, but Springer responded impressively to level at 5-5. The contest remained on a knife-edge, culminating in a last-leg decider for the third time in Budapest, where Springer held his nerve to cap a remarkable run.
“I’m over the moon to be honest,” reflected Springer, who is in his first season as a PDC Tour Card holder.
“I took my chances, so I’m very happy – I can’t believe it.
“You can see that the crowd is amazing, they were supporting me and I think I did a good job.”
Springer’s title charge included victories over Gian van Veen, Damon Heta, Rob Cross and world number one Luke Humphries, before surviving a match dart and landing a crucial 170 checkout in his semi-final win over Josh Rock.
“My goal was to qualify for the World Championships, and I did that some months ago, so now I can play with some freedom,” Springer added.
“I have nothing to lose, and I’m very happy that I won.”
Despite defeat, Noppert impressed throughout the weekend, defeating Michael van Gerwen, Chris Dobey and Luke Littler to reach his first European Tour final since 2022.
“I’m really proud of myself, I played a good weekend and I think there is more in the tank,” said Noppert.
Source: PDC.TV
