Two-time PDC major winner Nathan Aspinall announced this morning on social media that he will part ways with management company ZXF Sports at the end of the current season.
The news follows just weeks after fellow Englishman Luke Littler revealed he was leaving the same management stable. In a heartfelt statement released this morning, The Asp expressed his gratitude to long-time manager Martin Foulds and reflected on their incredible journey together:
“After 8 incredible years with ZXF Sports Management, I’ll be parting ways with them after the conclusion of this year’s World Championships. I signed with Martin in 2017 as an unknown, and with his amazing generosity, commitment, friendship and management skills, he helped transform me into a two time Major winner, multiple major finalist, as well as reaching the top 4 in the world rankings.
“We have had many laughs along this amazing journey, travelled the world together, seen some amazing places and, of course, lots of successes. You have not only been my manager but one of my closest friends.
“What you have done for me and my family I will be forever grateful for, and from the bottom of my heart, thank you for all you have done. I’m looking forward to signing this 8-year relationship off with a bang over the last few months of the season, as well as excited about what the future has in store for The Asp.”
For those within the PDC circle, the bond between Aspinall and Foulds has long been recognised as one, if not the the strongest player-manager partnerships in professional darts. Their relationship extended far beyond business, built on trust, loyalty, and genuine friendship.
A clearly emotional Martin Foulds later shared his own message on Facebook, paying tribute to their time together:
“What a ride it’s been…
“Back in 2018, this journey started – none of us really knowing what was ahead. Over the years we’ve made more memories than I could ever put into words… from Vegas nights to Australia, visiting Hobbiton in New Zealand, and sharing moments that will stay with me forever.
“We’ve celebrated major trophies, that unbelievable first World Championship semi-final run on debut, and everything in between. We’ve spent weeks on end together – even through Covid isolation, passing the time by absolutely smashing Tiger Woods Golf and laughing our heads off.
“There’ve been countless rounds of golf, endless miles travelled, ups and downs, and so many moments that define more than just a working relationship – they define true friendship.
“As we now part ways in a management capacity, it doesn’t feel like an ending at all. It’s just the next chapter – one built purely on friendship, respect, and everything we’ve shared along the way. Here’s to the memories we’ve made, and to many more still to come. Friends first and always.”
It truly is the end of an era – the conclusion of a hugely successful partnership that has delivered major titles, career milestones, and unforgettable memories.
But while their professional relationship may be coming to a close, one thing is certain: the friendship between Nathan Aspinall and Martin Foulds will continue long after the final dart of the season is thrown.
A reasonable question though might to ask what is it that can have The Asp swapping out such a close and successful relationship and being so excited by the future arrangements?
—–ENDS—–
Images: PDC
