Michael van Gerwen reflects on challenging year ahead of PDC World Darts Championship
Michael van Gerwen has delivered a brutally honest assessment of his form ahead of the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship, confessing he has experienced his most difficult year to date, reports BritPanorama.
The three-time world champion spoke candidly to Sky Sports about his struggles. “I have had a tough year, probably my worst year ever,” the Dutchman acknowledged. The 35-year-old arrives at Alexandra Palace confronting both personal upheaval and professional challenges that have marked the past twelve months.
Despite the turmoil, Van Gerwen remains resolute about his ambitions. He aims to secure a fourth world title and demonstrate he remains among darts’ elite competitors. His frank admission signals a player confronting reality whilst maintaining the competitive drive that has defined his career.
Van Gerwen’s personal life has undergone significant upheaval following the breakdown of his marriage. The separation has profoundly affected his domestic arrangements and professional commitments. “I used to have a wife who helped me with things, but now when I have the kids, I have to look after them,” he explained to Sky Sports. “So I have to adjust myself a little bit. My kids are always priority number one.”
The impact of the divorce extended beyond household responsibilities, resulting in Van Gerwen missing the World Cup of Darts, highlighting how personal circumstances have disrupted his competitive schedule. The Dutchman acknowledged these life changes require substantial adaptation whilst balancing parental duties with professional demands.
Currently, Van Gerwen occupies third place in the world rankings, trailing Luke Humphries and Luke Littler. This positioning would have seemed inconceivable during his dominant years. He hasn’t claimed the Sid Waddell Trophy since 2019, a seven-year absence that weighs heavily. He’s reached three subsequent finals but suffered defeats to Peter Wright, Michael Smith, and Luke Littler.
“Yes, of course,” he acknowledged when asked about the drought. “We have had a lot of things in between. We had coronavirus, we had a couple of other good dart players, a couple of mistakes by myself.” His 2025 campaign included a notable triumph at the World Series Finals, where he defeated Humphries, Josh Rock, and Littler to claim the trophy.
Van Gerwen remains unfazed by no longer being the hunted. “Of course, it’s always nice to chase someone; it is easier than being hunted,” he stated. “I don’t mind being talked about whereas they don’t like the pressure. I had the pressure for the last 20 years. It doesn’t bother me.”
The Dutchman believes pressure has historically elevated his performance. “It has helped me play my best in the past, so I hope it does in the future.” Regarding his current form, Van Gerwen offered measured optimism: “I know what I’m capable of and when I’m sharp, I can play. I can still get to that level.” As he prepares for yet another pivotal moment in his career, the question remains whether he can reclaim his status among the elite. The darts world will be watching closely, as always.
