Simon Whitlock’s bid to defend his European Championship title was ended by Adrian Lewis in Sunday’s final.
Whitlock, whose 2012 victory in the £200,000 tournament was his first PDC major title, went down 11-6 to a relentless Lewis performance.
The Australian’s run to the final included victories over Colin Lloyd and the Huybrechts brothers; Kim and Ronny.
But his most memorable display came in the quarter-finals, where he completed a stunning comeback from 9-3 down to defeat Jamie Caven 10-9.
However, Whitlock was unable to add a second major to his name in Germany but does not have to wait long to contest the next one, with the World Matchplay beginning in Blackpool in less than a fortnight.
“I want to thank the crowd for supporting me,” said the world number five, who proved a real favourite with the fans in Mulheim.
“I tried my guts out but it was hard work against Adrian. He was awesome and deserved to win.
“When I look back it’s been a great tournament for me and it will set up me up nicely for the next few to come.”
By Chris Murphy
Bronze tickets are still available to see van Gerwen, Whitlock, Wade, van Barneveld, Priestley, Huybrechts and Winstanley at OVER THE TOP in Barnsley on September 27 – GET YOURS HERE