This week marked a milestone in the career of Dutch darts player Jermaine Wattimena, as he captured his very first Pro Tour title—an achievement made even sweeter by the dramatic circumstances surrounding it.
The victory was not only significant for Wattimena personally, but it also served as the perfect revenge for an unsportsmanlike moment involving German player Gabriel Clemens just a day prior. The two met twice in as many days, setting the stage for a captivating rivalry that unfolded on the PDC floor in Hildesheim, Germany.
Gabriel Clemens on Tuesday at Players Championship 22
Jermaine Wattimena on Wednesday at Players Championship 23
The drama began on Tuesday during the third round of Players Championship 22. In a tense and closely fought contest, Clemens emerged victorious—but not without controversy. In the closing stages of the match, Clemens executed what many have described as a “dirty move,” clearly visible in the footage that quickly circulated among fans and pundits. Wattimena was visibly frustrated by the incident, and understandably so.
However, he wouldn’t have to wait long for redemption. Just 24 hours later, fate brought them together again in the third round of Players Championship 23, once again held in Hildesheim. This time, it was Wattimena who delivered the decisive blow—responding with a similarly controversial move that turned the tables and sent a clear message to his opponent. It was a moment of poetic justice that set the tone for what would become the most successful day of Wattimena’s professional career.
Following his revenge win over Clemens, Wattimena went on an unstoppable run to claim the title. He defeated, in order: José de Sousa (6–3), Rob Owen (6–1), Gabriel Clemens (6–4), Danny Noppert (6–4), Ryan Joyce (6–4), Bradley Brooks (7–2), and Lukas Wenig (8–5) in the final.
What made his triumph all the more impressive were the high-quality averages he posted throughout the day. His performances peaked at precisely the right moments, with averages progressing as follows: nearly 89, 96, 96, 99, 100, 104, and 105. Notably, his two highest averages came earlier in the day, while his match against Noppert marked his lowest.
Jermaine Wattimena’s maiden Pro Tour title is a testament to his resilience, focus, and timing—and the added drama only cemented it as one of the most memorable stories of the season.