PDC World Darts Championship 2025: "I Don't Like Nicknames in Darts,” says Dutch Wonderkid Wessel Nijman

Young Dutch darting sensation Wessel Nijman overcame a challenging first-round encounter against South Africa’s Cameron Carolissen, narrowly edging a 3-2 victory.

Back on Tour

Nijman’s journey back to professional darts has been anything but conventional. The 23-year-old was handed a five-year ban in 2020 after being found guilty of match-fixing during the COVID-era Modus Icons of Darts at Home Series. 

Reflecting on his “stupid” mistake, Nijman has spent the last five years rehabilitating, paying the price for his actions, and making the most of a rare second chance in the sport.

Now back in the spotlight, Nijman has found himself as the joint sixth favourite to win the prestigious Sid Waddell Trophy at this year’s World Championship. His favourable draw has avoided heavyweights like Luke Littler, Luke Humphries, Michael van Gerwen, and Gary Anderson until the later stages of the competition.

Although Nijman is yet to secure a PDC televised ranking title, his exceptional form on the Pro Tour and his impressive seasonal three-dart average have propelled him into conversations about a deep run at Ally Pally.

"I Don't Like Nicknames in Darts"

Uniquely, Nijman has eschewed a nickname—an anomaly in a sport where nicknames are as iconic as the players themselves. Speaking after his opening match, the Dutchman explained his decision to forego the tradition.

“Two reasons,” he told SportsBoom.com. “One is I don’t like nicknames in darts.”

His stance sets him apart from the rest of the darting world, where nicknames are often embraced for adding character and engaging the crowd.

“And the second one is no one has ever given me a good one. But if you don’t like them, no one’s going to give you a good one anyway.”

When asked to reveal some of the nicknames he’s been offered, Nijman shyly declined. “No, no, no, I’m not going to do that,” he said, his cheeks reddening as he hinted at the embarrassment some suggestions have caused.

Favourite Status Despite Lack of Experience

Despite his lack of PDC experience, Nijman drew comparisons between himself and 2018 World Champion Rob Cross, who famously won the title on his debut.

“I wouldn’t like to say I could take it like he did [Rob Cross], but it is a dream for me. That’s one thing for sure,” Nijman shared. “But I don’t want to look any further than my next game.”

Nijman now prepares for a third-round clash with out-of-form seed Joe Cullen. Despite being ranked lower, the 22-year-old enters the match as the favourite, bolstered by his rising form and growing confidence.

With his second chance at darts in full swing, Nijman’s journey remains one to watch—nickname or not.