Gian van Veen Triumphs Over Lisa Ashton in Exciting Grand Slam of Darts Debut

In a thrilling debut at the 2025 Grand Slam of Darts, Gian van Veen secured his first victory against Lisa Ashton, winning 5-4. The match took place in Wolverhampton, where the atmosphere was electrifying, with a home crowd cheering for Ashton. Van Veen, the recent European Championship winner, faced significant pressure throughout the match.

Match Highlights

From the outset, Van Veen took an early lead, driving the score to 1-0. Nonetheless, competing against a seasoned player like Ashton and in front of her enthusiastic supporters proved challenging. After struggling with doubles early on, Van Veen realized the match’s intensity.

Turning Points

• Van Veen regained his focus in the final leg.
• He attributed his ability to perform under pressure to experiences from earlier tournaments.
• A defined moment came when he reached a score of 68 after twelve darts.

Despite the crowd’s jeers, Van Veen remained composed, aware of the importance of this victory for his career progression. “I don’t think ‘enjoy’ is the right word,” he reflected, acknowledging the mental challenge posed by Ashton’s fan base.

Van Veen’s Reflections

During his walk-on, presenter John McDonald hailed him as “the new European champion.” Van Veen appreciated this recognition, despite it being fleeting, calling it a special moment. He emphasized that he must focus on the Grand Slam, which holds significant implications for his ranking.

Future Challenges

As Van Veen prepares to face Wessel Nijman next, he expressed confidence stemming from his recent triumph in Dortmund. He recognized that a year ago, he might not have won the match against Ashton, highlighting his improved mental resilience. “Today I showed I can take that with me,” he stated.

• Van Veen’s goals for the Grand Slam are clear: win all three group matches.
• He acknowledged the strength of his group and the importance of every leg.
• Beau Greaves is another anticipated opponent, creating a narrative for the upcoming matches.

Van Veen’s insights into competing against female players revealed a unique dynamic, noting that crowd support could add an extra layer of complexity. “Maybe subconsciously it does feel different,” he admitted, underlining the significance of mental preparation in his future bouts. The upcoming clash with Nijman promises to be an exciting match, as both players aim to showcase their abilities.