PA Images/Alamy Images

'So much pressure on my shoulders' - Ricardo Pietreczko celebrates an emotional escape against Josh Rock

Originally posted on Dartsnews.com | By Samuel Gill | Last updated May 25, 2025 1:48 PM ET

Ricardo Pietreczko delivered a statement performance at the Dutch Darts Championship 2025 in Rosmalen, toppling defending champion Josh Rock 6–4 in a high-quality second-round clash. The victory sees the Berlin-born star reach the final day of a European Tour event for the first time this season—an enormous result in his pursuit of a World Matchplay berth.

“Yes, I knew it was against the defending champion,” said a visibly relieved Pietreczko post-match. “I won the game, and I’m happy—it’s the first time this year I’ve reached the final day by getting through the second round. I’m just really happy!”

The man nicknamed “Pikachu” couldn’t hide his emotions after the final dart, letting out a passionate roar of “It’s possible!” in a moment of pure release. Speaking about the outburst, he said: “There was just so much pressure on my shoulders—because of the World Matchplay race, the qualifying battles for the next European Tours… Winning that second-round match was incredibly important for me.”

Pietreczko’s triumph over Rock isn’t just a scalp in terms of prestige; it could prove decisive in the Pro Tour Order of Merit. Heading into Rosmalen, the German was clinging to the 16th and final qualifying spot for the World Matchplay in Blackpool, narrowly ahead of Poland’s Krzysztof Ratajski. In fact, he only gained entry into the tournament due to late withdrawals from Rob Cross and Gary Anderson—sneaking into the field as a replacement.

Now, with a marquee win under his belt and momentum on his side, Pietreczko can dare to dream. He’s set to face Daryl Gurney in this afternoon’s final match, with a spot in the quarter-finals—and further ranking points—on the line.