Krzysztof Ratajski defeated Jermaine Wattimena 8-6 in a nail-biting final to win the European Darts Open in Leverkusen.Ratajski raced into a 4-1 lead only for Wattimena to reel off five legs in succession, but the Pole roared from 6-4 down to claim his first title of 2026 and third-ever on the European Tour.
Having dethroned reigning champion Nathan Aspinall on route to the final, the new world No 20 set his sights on the Betfred World Matchplay, live on Sky Sports from July 18-26.
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“I’m really happy. I don’t know what to say,” the 2021 Matchplay semi-finalist said. “It was a close game. Jermaine played very well, and I’m really happy that I survived it.”I didn’t expect it. I would have been happy with the last eight or last four, so to win the title is more than I expected.
“I will do my best in Blackpool. I hope I will play well and hopefully I can win that first match. We will see.”
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Ratajski came from 6-4 down to defeat Jermain Wattimena[Sebastian Doppstadt/PDC Europe]
The victory ensured Ratajski maintained his flawless record in ProTour finals, and there was achievement in defeat for Wattimena, who reached his first semi-final and final on the circuit.
“I’m very happy with that,” the Dutchman said. “It was a magic day.”I missed some chances, but he missed some chances as well, so I think it’s a fair result. He was the better player so well done to Krzysztof.”
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Wattimena reached his first semi-final and final on the circuit [Sebastian Doppstadt/PDC Europe]
2026 European…
2026-07-12 23:02:00
