IVG is proud to partner with Nathan Aspinall, one of the world's top darts players, currently ranked 12th globally. Together, we’re raising awareness about the benefits of switching to a smoking alternative. Nathan understands the physical toll of smoking and highlights that vaping is 95% less harmful.

Have you ever wondered why or how someone chooses a career in darts? Keep reading to discover Nathan’s journey and learn how one becomes a professional in the world of darts.

Nathan Aspinall, or “The Asp” a 33-year-old professional darts player from Stockport, has become one of the most recognised names in darts; his remarkable record includes winning the 2019 UK Open and reaching the 2021 PDC World Darts Championship finals. However, his journey was anything but straightforward, marked by passion, resilience, and a few life-changing moments that have altered his life forever, Nathan has persisted to become highly successful in his field.

Born and raised in Stockport, Aspinall was an ambitious child with dreams of becoming a professional footballer. He excelled as a goalkeeper and was scouted by a few clubs, but faced an obstacle he could not overcome—his height. “Everyone as a kid wants to be a footballer,” he once mentioned. Despite his exceptional skills, he could not make it in the sport, which left him searching for a new path.

Aspinall’s love for darts began unexpectedly. After Aspinall was released from his football contract, he began spending time in local pubs with his family. One day when his dad and grandad were playing darts, they encouraged Nathan to join in - and so he did. To his surprise, he discovered he had a natural talent for the sport. After a few tries, his hand-eye coordination and competitive spirit helped him progress quickly.

One of the key moments in Aspinall’s career came two weeks before attending Q School (the qualification event for aspiring darts players to win a Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) tour card.) At the time he was hesitant and unsure if he was good enough, but the landlord at his local pub believed in him so much that he offered to cover the costs. Aspinall went on to win his tour card, marking the start of his professional career.

As a young player, Aspinall juggled darts with his job and studies, aspiring to become an accountant. However, the demands of professional darts and training eventually pushed him to make the ultimate decision: pursue his passion or give up. In 2018, he took the significant risk to quit his job to focus entirely on darts. It was a daunting decision, as he had a family to support and little financial security. "I had nothing," he admitted, relying on sponsorship deals to cover life’s expenses. The immense pressure of needing to win led to several setbacks, including moments where he doubted himself.

However, Aspinall’s persistence paid off. On September 5th, 2018, he achieved a career-defining victory, winning his first PDC Pro Tour title. That day, he arrived at the venue with just “£20 to his name”. Against all odds, he delivered a phenomenal performance, securing a £10,000 prize. “Once I hit rock bottom, my ability finally came out,” he reflected. This win not only boosted his confidence but also reassured him that he was on the right path.

Today, Nathan Aspinall is a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and self-belief. From his humble start in Stockport to becoming one of the top darts players in the world, his story inspires anyone chasing a dream to keep going—even when the odds seem impossible. Aspinall’s dedication, discipline, and excellence mirrors the core values that IVG represents, making him the perfect ambassador for the brand.