Dave Chisnall secured a vital boost at the Baltic Sea Darts Open, reaching the last sixteen of a European Tour event for the first time this season. The Englishman defeated Joe Cullen 6-4 in the second round, drawing a line under a difficult spell. After the match, Chisnall spoke candidly about his slump in form, extra practice hours, and the mental shift that restored his confidence.
Chisnall endured a stuttering start to the season, only sporadically hitting his usual level. His last quarterfinal at a major dates back to 2024, fueling growing doubts. Against Cullen, he trailed 4-3 before winning three straight legs. His doubling made the difference, taking six of eleven checkout chances and averaging 92.44. “I played alright, there were some slack darts but that is what I have been doing all year,” Chisnall said. “I felt good this week coming into it as well. I felt really confident in my own game.”
That confidence came from extra practice at home over recent weeks. “I have actually now put a little bit of time in at home practising. I said to the boys last night I have a good chance here. I am feeling very positive,” he added. Alongside practice, a mental shift played a key role. Chisnall revealed his manager Roger pointed out he often looks unhappy on stage. “It’s like my manager Roger said to me, when I play darts I’m looking miserable. I am not happy. It’s probably because of my performances but today I felt good and I gave myself a little bit of belief and be happy up here.”
Chisnall admitted his scoring power wasn’t at the desired level but stayed calm at key moments. “That is what worked to be fair. My doubles were good. I was a bit dodgy on the scoring but that is how it is. I got the job done and I am here on Sunday.” He faces Gian van Veen in the third round. The display in Kiel is seen as a sign that Chisnall is moving in the right direction again, having rediscovered the joy in his game after months of frustration.
