Saudi Darts Championship: Nathan Aspinall questions the audience in the new tournament

“I’m not stupid. I feel like they are.” [the crowd] They weren’t all there of their own volition, shall we say, and the place was very small.

“Everything has to start somewhere, but as long as people leave the week and say, ‘You know, we really enjoyed darts,’ it will get good coverage.”

In a statement, a PDC spokesperson told BBC Sport that the organization was “delighted to see such strong interest” in the Saudi event, and Aspinall’s comments were “reflective of the fact that this was the first darts event of its kind in the region.”

The spokesman said all spectators attended as ticket holders or guests, adding: “As with any new market, the atmosphere and crowd composition can differ from established darts events such as those in the UK and Europe.”

Saudi Arabia has organized several major sporting events in recent years, including Formula 1 and golf, and will host the men’s soccer World Cup in 2034. But the regime has been criticized for its human rights record and environmental impact.

“It was a lot better than I thought it would be. There were a lot more people than I expected,” Aspinall said.

Darts is known for its rowdy crowds but with the Saudi event alcohol-free, Aspinall said the atmosphere “was different” before adding: “But you know, I enjoyed it. Whenever you looked at the crowd, you could tell they were watching it.”