Darts star reveals James Wade ‘act’ that stopped him finding his rhythm during World Series Finals

WESSEL NIJMAN admits James Wade’s “act” stopped him finding his rhythm as his latest big-stage heartbreak ended in Amsterdam. The world No12 was beaten 10-7 by Wade in the last 16 of the World Series of Darts Finals despite fighting back to level at 6-6 at the AFAS Live. Wessel Nijman was beaten by James Wade Credit: PA Wade took a slow approach to the game Credit: Getty Nijman, 26, who has won SIX Players Championship titles and two European Tour events this season, is still waiting for his first major quarter-final. The Dutchman believes Wade’s trademark slow approach may have played a part in another frustrating TV exit. Sign up for the Sport newsletter Thank you! He told Viaplay: “You know it’s there and you know he does it. It’s a bit of an act how he does it. “That’s his experience. He’s allowed to do that, because he’s not doing anything that’s not allowed. “But that act does mean that maybe subconsciously, certainly at the start of that first session, I don’t really get into my rhythm.” 11-time major winner Wade is renowned for taking his time around the oche and spends plenty of time signing autographs and taking pictures with supporters during his walk-on. Nijman knew exactly what was coming but still struggled to deal with the disruption. He added: “You know he’s going to do it and that it’s going to happen. Still he manages it and that’s just a real shame. Most read in Sport SUN VEGAS WELCOME OFFER: GET UP TO £100 BONUS Darts travel offers WE have teamed up with some of the UK’s finest travel firms to come up with these darts packages. Join the party when Luke Littler and co take centre stage. 🎯 MR VEGAS GRAND SLAM OF DARTS — Ticket to the darts plus night at handpicked hotel from £129 — BUY HERE 🎯 PDC PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP FINALS— See the world’s finest players go head to head at Butlin’s Minehead — BUY HERE * If you click on a link we will earn affiliate revenue. “I still think that if I just come back normally after that second break, it’s in my own hands.” Despite another strong season on the floor, Nijman admitted he is becoming fed up with falling short at the Premier events. He continued: “I’m getting a bit tired of all those experiences. It’s time I deliver and really break through.” Comment now