LJUBIC FORGIVES VAN GERWEN FOR PUB JIBE

PERO LJUBIC insists there’s no bad blood with Michael van Gerwen after the Dutch star branded him a “pub player” in a shock rant. 

‘The Croatia Knight’ has endured a torrid start to life as a PDC Tour Card holder since coming through Qualifying School in January after picking up just £3,250 in ranking prize money. 

However, the 47-year-old was handed a big stage chance at the 2025 Poland Darts Masters — and pushed MVG all the way before losing 6-4 in Gliwice last weekend. 

World No. 3 Van Gerwen’s brutal words after the match raised eyebrows. 

He said: “It wasn’t a good game at all. Pero needs to be happy that he won one leg. Pero is not a good player. Pero is a pub player — we all know that.  

“I’m not harsh — he is a lovely man but when you throw treble 12 for treble 20 then you need to go back to the dartboard… I’m the one to blame.  

“But I made Pero look good today. Pero won a few legs and it feels like his birthday!” 

But Ljubic has poured cold water on any idea of a feud with ‘Mighty Mike’ after the 36-year-old apologised for his actions. 

He revealed: “Michael and I have known each other for a long time — we like to have a laugh. There was no bad intention behind his words. 

“He was just frustrated with his own performance, and I understand that. 

“To be honest, Michael apologised to me straight away. 

“As I said, we know each other well, and I know he meant no harm. 

“In fact, during a later chat, he even gave me some motivation.  

“He’s a genuinely decent guy and a top-class player — so don’t judge him too harshly. Emotions can run high in those moments.

“For me, what matters most is someone’s honesty — not what the internet says.  

“As I mentioned, he regretted his words, and he apologised. That’s enough for me. 

“Once again, don’t be too quick to judge — emotions can take over in moments like that.”