Wessel Nijman’s Redemption: From Suspension to Triumph in the Dutch Darts Scene
In a remarkable turn of events, Wessel Nijman, the 23-year-old Dutch darts prodigy, has made a triumphant comeback after serving a two-and-a-half-year suspension for deliberately losing a match during the Modus Icons of Darts League, an online tournament held at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Nijman’s suspension, though initially set at five years, was reduced to two-and-a-half years due to his immediate admission of guilt and cooperation with the investigation. Upon his return in 2023, he wasted no time in making his mark, winning the prestigious Open Rivierenland, a tournament organized by the Dutch Darts Association (NDB).
“At the beginning of my suspension, however, I completely put my arrows aside,” Nijman reflects. “I didn’t feel like it at all for a while and during that period I completely threw myself into my work and did a huge amount of overtime. There wasn’t much to do that period anyway because you had to stay inside as much as possible because of the pandemic.”
Nijman’s hiatus from the sport, however, only fueled his determination.
“But when I immediately won Open Rivierenland after my suspension it started itching again. I realized that there was still a huge potential in my career and with the support of Darryl Fitton (former top dart player and now ambassador for Mission Darts) I was also able to play on the Development Tour.”
Despite his impressive comeback, Nijman was not granted a ticket to the prestigious Modus Super Series, a decision made by the Dutch Darts Association.
“I would have declined participation anyway,” Nijman stated. “Suppose that in a tournament of theirs you ever lose another game somewhat with a question mark, there will always be doubts and you shouldn’t want that.”
Wessel Nijman, currently ranked 90th in the world rankings, has proven that he has the resilience and determination to overcome adversity and reclaim his position in the Darts scene. His journey serves as a testament to the sport’s ability to foster redemption and second chances.
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