The Silent Storm: Mensur Suljovic’s ‘Innocent’ Tactic Explained by Vincent van der Voort
Darts pro Vincent van der Voort reveals the often-frustrating yet effective strategy of Mensur Suljovic. Known for his deliberate pace, Suljovic reportedly employs a ‘murdered innocence’ act – a seemingly apologetic demeanor that, combined with his slow play, is designed to break opponents’ rhythm and concentration, making him a truly unique and challenging competitor on the oche.
Unpacking the ‘Gentle Giant’s’ Strategy
Mensur Suljovic, affectionately known as ‘The Gentle Giant,’ is a darts player unlike any other. His style often divides opinion, not for his skill, which is undeniable, but for his uniquely slow and deliberate pace on the oche. This isn’t just a quirk; according to fellow professional Vincent van der Voort, it’s a cleverly orchestrated ‘tactic’ designed to gain a psychological edge.
The Art of ‘Murdered Innocence’
Van der Voort describes Suljovic’s approach as playing the ‘murdered innocence.’ This involves more than just slow play; it’s a combination of:
- Deliberate Pace: Suljovic takes his time between throws, often walking back to the scoreboard, adjusting his glasses, or simply pausing for an extended period.
- Feigned Apology: He frequently exhibits gestures that appear apologetic or innocent, even after a slow turn, as if unaware of the impact on his opponent.
- Maintaining Eye Contact: Sometimes, he maintains a steady gaze, which can be disarming for opponents expecting a quick throw.
This combination, as Van der Voort notes, has a singular goal: to irritate and disrupt.
Why It Works: A Psychological Masterclass
In the high-pressure world of professional darts, rhythm and concentration are paramount. A player’s flow can be easily broken. Suljovic’s ‘tactic’ exploits this vulnerability:
- Breaking Rhythm: Opponents accustomed to a faster game find their natural throwing rhythm constantly interrupted.
- Mental Frustration: The slow pace, coupled with the ‘innocent’ act, can lead to significant mental frustration, causing opponents to rush their throws or lose focus.
- Creating Doubt: The psychological pressure can make players overthink their own game, leading to unforced errors.
Van der Voort emphasizes that while it can be frustrating to play against, it is undeniably a ‘beautiful tactic’ in its effectiveness. It showcases a deep understanding of the mental game inherent in darts.
Vincent van der Voort’s Perspective
As a seasoned professional who has faced Suljovic multiple times, Van der Voort’s insights are particularly valuable. He acknowledges the irritation it causes but also respects its strategic brilliance. He understands that in darts, winning isn’t just about hitting the treble 20; it’s also about managing the game’s psychological battlefield. Suljovic excels at creating an environment that favors his own deliberate style, often at the expense of his opponent’s comfort.
The Unique Challenge of Facing Suljovic
Ultimately, facing Mensur Suljovic is a test not just of darting skill, but of mental fortitude. Players must learn to ignore the distractions, maintain their own pace, and not get drawn into the psychological chess match. His ‘murdered innocence’ tactic, as described by Van der Voort, solidifies his reputation as one of darts’ most intriguing and challenging competitors, proving that sometimes, the slowest path can lead to victory.
Source: Based on an article from News – Dartsnieuws.com.
