Darts
PDC World Masters 2025: Nathan Aspinall Gives Advice to Emotional Cameron Menzies After Hard-Fought Win
Nathan Aspinall reached the PDC World Masters quarterfinals, defeating Cameron Menzies, whose emotions cost him. Aspinall offered post-match advice, urging Menzies to improve his mental game.
PDC / Taylor Lanning
Former World Matchplay champion Nathan Aspinall continued his impressive start to 2025, securing a place in the quarterfinals of the PDC World Masters with a victory over highly rated Scot Cameron Menzies.
Aspinall wasn’t at his fluent best, but his composure was enough to get the job done.
Menzies Emotions Take Over
Meanwhile, Menzies’ struggles on the big stage were once again evident, as he appeared to let his emotions take over in the latter stages of the match.
One standout moment came in the final set when, in an unusual display, Menzies stood behind Aspinall and joined the audience in clapping while his opponent attempted a 170 checkout, effectively conceding the match.
Menzies is no stranger to wearing his heart on his sleeve. He was visibly emotional following his first-round defeat to Leonard Gates at the 2025 World Darts Championship, and many within the sport—including Aspinall, believe he has the ability to compete at the highest level but struggles to control his emotions on the televised stage.
After the match, Menzies was seen in deep conversation with Aspinall, appearing to seek advice from his fellow professional.
Aspinall later revealed that he was more than happy to offer support, stressing the importance of maintaining composure in high-pressure situations.
“I was basically trying to help him out. He beats me on the floor [Pro Tour events] all the time, but he puts too much emotion on the stage,” Aspinall explained.
“If he can keep his emotions in check, he’s a top player, top 32 all day long.”
Mental Strength the Key as Aspinall Marches On
During the match, Aspinall admitted he could sense Menzies’ inner turmoil and even felt tempted to step in and offer support mid-game.
“I was thinking it during the match. Let me just get a hold of this guy and sort him out because I’ve been through a lot of issues, but I do believe I’m very mentally strong.”
Aspinall’s reputation as one of the most mentally resilient players on tour is well-earned. Having battled through significant injury setbacks—including recent elbow surgery—his ‘never-say-die’ attitude has been a cornerstone of his success.
Aspinall Eyes Future in Player Management
Looking ahead, the Stockport star even hinted at a future role in player management, revealing that if Matchroom President Barry Hearn were to increase prize money, he might consider stepping back from playing to help others, like Menzies, develop their mental game.
“Maybe one day when Big Barry [Hearn] makes the World Championship a million pound and I win that, I might take a step back and go into management.”
“For now, he’s my opponent, he’s the enemy, so when I play him, I’ve got to beat him,” he added.
“But when we’re off the oche, I’m going to help him as much as I can. There’s no disputing his talent, he’s just got to sort out in between his ears.”
With Aspinall now marching into the quarterfinals, his focus remains on adding another major title to his name. As for Menzies, it’s clear he has the raw talent, but overcoming his emotional battles will be key to unlocking his full potential on the PDC stage.
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