Michael van Gerwen responds sharply to Peter Wright’s vision jibe
Michael van Gerwen has fired back at Peter Wright in spectacular fashion after the Scot suggested his eyesight was failing, reports BritPanorama.
In response to Wright’s claim, the Dutchman pointed to his recent performance and dismissed any concerns about his vision. “If you look at my new dates here and there, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with my eyes,” Van Gerwen stated. “I keep getting compliments.”
The three-time world champion escalated his rebuttal, mocking Wright further by dismissing him as irrelevant. “He can’t even win a raffle these days anymore,” Van Gerwen added. “To speak the name of Peter Wright is a waste of my breath.”
Wright had previously asserted that Van Gerwen’s vision was deteriorating with age, suggesting that younger players may have an advantage due to superior eyesight. “I think MVG’s vision is probably going — but he won’t admit it,” Wright said.
This exchange comes at a pivotal moment, with both players on course to potentially meet in the third round at Alexandra Palace. Before that can happen, Wright must defeat German qualifier Arno Merk after his comfortable 3-0 win over Noa-Lynn van Leuven.
Van Gerwen, meanwhile, awaits the winner of a match between William O’Connor and Krzysztof Kciuk. However, his path to a potential showdown with Wright has not been without challenges. The world number three faced significant early struggles against Japanese qualifier Mitsuhiko Tatsunami, losing five of the opening six legs.
Reflecting on his performance, Van Gerwen admitted, “That was really difficult. I don’t know what happened. I started off really c**p. My first darts were constantly underneath and above. Nothing really worked.” Ultimately, though, he regained his form, winning six of the next seven legs to secure a 3-1 victory.
Despite the ups and downs of the tournament, Van Gerwen remains eager for a potential matchup with Wright. “I would love to play Peter Wright,” he expressed. “I hope he has a big mouth like he’s had for the past two weeks. I keep smashing him in exhibitions.”
As Wright prepares to face Merk and Van Gerwen gears up for his next opponent, the prospect of their anticipated clash looms large, promising to add another chapter to their ongoing rivalry.
In the world of darts, personality and rivalry often ignite the competition, making every match a dynamic experience. This latest exchange only heightens the anticipation, showcasing how even the sport’s biggest names relish the thrill of a challenge.
