'Martin Schindler’s showing how it’s done': Ricardo Pietreczko inspired by compatriot with main aim to World Matchplay quest

In the build-up to the 2025 World Matchplay in Blackpool, German star Ricardo Pietreczko caught up with Dartn.de to reflect on a promising season so far, the unique demands of the Players Championship circuit, and his goals for the prestigious event on the Lancashire coast.

Satisfaction with 2025 – But Still Room to Grow

Ricardo Pietreczko is in good spirits heading into Blackpool, describing himself as “very satisfied” with how the season has gone so far. The Nuremberg native has particularly impressed on the European Tour, where he’s shown remarkable first-round consistency.

“I haven’t lost a first-round match on the European Tour this year,” Pietreczko said. “I’ve only made it through the second round twice, but I think that’s still a decent achievement.”

At the most recent event in Kiel, Pietreczko progressed to the second round before suffering a narrow 6–4 defeat to Nathan Aspinall — a name he’s become increasingly familiar with. “It's almost a standard duel now between Aspinall and me,” he joked. “He's not exactly my favourite opponent, but one day I’ll crack him.”

While his stage form continues to shine, Pietreczko acknowledges that there’s still room to improve at the floor events. “As long as there’s no crowd, I’m missing something,” he admitted. “But I’m showing that I’m becoming more consistent on the floor too. I can play 90 to 100 averages again, and it’s starting to come back together.”

Excited for Blackpool Return

Pietreczko begins his World Matchplay campaign on Monday evening — the final first-round slot on the schedule — against world number six Chris Dobey.

“The timing doesn’t really matter to me,” he said. “When I saw the draw, I was just happy I didn’t have to face Luke Humphries straight away. That gives you a chance to dream a little bigger,” he laughed, before adding: “If I do play Humphries, it’ll have to be in the final — and I wouldn’t mind that at all.”

The later match also means a more relaxed travel schedule. “We’re flying in on Saturday, taking Sunday to acclimatise, and will probably stroll over to the venue around 3 or 4 p.m. on Monday.”

Asked about pre-match routines, Pietreczko keeps things simple: “It’s always different. We sleep in, have some breakfast or maybe lunch — that’s about it.”

Clear Goals Despite Tough Draw

Facing Dobey in the first round and a potential second-round clash with an in-form Gerwyn Price, Pietreczko knows the road won’t be easy — but he's ready.

“You can’t underestimate anyone at the World Matchplay,” he stressed. “Dobey’s a brilliant player. Price still has to win his first match too. Whether it’s a top-16 player or someone from the Pro Tour rankings — these are the best guys right now.”

This year marks Pietreczko’s second appearance at the Winter Gardens, and he’s hoping to put last year’s first-round exit behind him. “I’ve got the experience from last year now. I know how everything works there — but I need to shake that off quickly. The first round’s behind me. It’s back to square one, just with a little more experience this time.”

Preparation Amid Everyday Life

Pietreczko’s preparation has been steady but unconventional. “I’ve got a few online matches lined up, I’m in the middle of moving house, and still helping out with painting,” he said. “I’m also heading to a smaller tournament in Münster. Business as usual.”

Long-Term Goals: Top 16 and Greater Consistency

When it comes to expectations for Blackpool, Pietreczko is unequivocal. “I go into every tournament because I want to win it,” he stated. “If you don’t want to win, there’s no point in showing up.”

The longer format of the Matchplay doesn’t faze him either. “I know the format well by now. I don’t think it’ll be an issue.”

His focus, he explains, has shifted away from the main Order of Merit. “I don’t really look at the main rankings anymore. I’m more focused on the European Tour Race and the Pro Tour Order of Merit. The world ranking isn’t my top priority right now.”

Still, breaking into the top 16 remains firmly on his radar. “Martin Schindler’s showing how it’s done. Maybe I’ll follow him soon. It would be amazing to have two Germans in the top 16.”

On the practice board, Pietreczko is prioritising consistency. "That’s still an area I need to work on. But that could also be down to the stress of moving — it affects your concentration.”

A Positive Outlook and Strong Support System

Throughout the interview, Pietreczko exudes a renewed sense of joy and motivation. “I love travelling — flying, not so much — but everyone knows that. I’ve fallen back in love with darts. You can tell by how many local and regional tournaments I’ve been playing. I’m enjoying it a lot more than I did in recent months.”

A key part of that positive energy, he says, is thanks to the support of his girlfriend, Lena, who travels with him on tour. “When you have someone constant in your life, that means a lot.”