VAN DUIJVENBODE ADMITS HE GETS “BORED” BY WORLD MATCHPLAY FORMAT

DIRK VAN DUIJVENBODE says he gets “bored” by the World Matchplay format.

The world No27 battled past Chris Dobey 13-11 to reach the second round at the Winter Gardens.

Van Duijvenbode, 34, produced his best run in Blackpool in 2022 when he reached the quarter-finals before losing 16-11 to Danny Noppert.

But the Dutchman insists matches at the latter stages of the tournament can test his patience and has ruled out lifting the Phil Taylor Trophy.

He told talkSPORT: “The thing is I already know I will never win this tournament.

“I am bored after 12 legs. Just give me the quarter-finals every time, that is okay for me.

“But making quarter-finals is always good here. Maybe I am not bored if I make it again.

“But I remember that game. I’m on first session I was like how many more to go.

“It’s not my format in my head. I don’t take it as it comes. The next game is first to 11 so that is alright.”

Van Duijvenbode heads into his clash with compatriot Michael van Gerwen after a steady campaign, reaching a ProTour final and two European Tour quarter-finals this season.

The Aubergenius believes the strength in depth of the game means there are no straightforward routes through major tournaments anymore.

He added: “This is the first time I have ever watched the draw and I was like, it doesn’t really matter because you never get an easy draw.

“If you are being honest, they are tough draws. There are hard draws or whatever you call it.

“But there are no easy draws anymore. If you are on the side of my draw on the right side.

“If you are on the left side, there might be opponents you still prefer over others. The game is increasing and it is good to see.

“Hopefully I increase my standard.”

Words: Aaron Nijjar

Image: Taylor Lanning