VAN DEN BERGH SET TO RETURN AT WORLD CUP

DIMITRI VAN DEN BERGH is set to return to darts at the World Cup next month after a two-month break to focus on his mental health. 

Two-time major winner Van den Bergh withdrew from the Players Championship 13 in Rosmalen just four minutes prior to play. 

‘The Dreammaker’ addressed his absence on social media and wrote: “I will come back stronger.” 

World No. 22 Van den Bergh then missed several events including the German Grand Prix in Munich and the Austrian Darts Open. 

Van den Bergh will team up with World Grand Prix champion Mike De Decker to represent Belgium at the World Cup of Darts from June 12 to 15. 

He told Het Nieuwsblad: “I was advised to set a date and I absolutely wanted to play the World Cup.  

“It will be a nice restart, with Mike popping off for our country at such a wonderful tournament. 

“I always feel a lot of pride when I can play in the Belgian colors.  

“I have earned that place, so I see no reason why I should give it up. I also have a good click with Mike.  

“We have already thrown at pairs tournaments in the past, so we know each other at the oche.  

“We can form a strong team, which hopefully will not disappoint.  

“Mike is in great shape and knows what he’s doing, while I’m working hard behind the scenes to be ready.  

“And I know: hard work is rewarded.” 

Van Den Bergh made the semi-final of the World Masters in February. 

But Dimi has struggled on the ProTour this year, failing to progress beyond the third round in any of the 12 events he’s played. 

Antwerp thrower Van den Bergh acknowledged the challenges of his recent form but emphasised the importance of his break. 

He added: “First and foremost, I wanted to feel good about myself again. 

“If that hadn’t been the case by now, I would have missed the World Cup. But it’s going in the right direction. 

“I took this break for myself. Not for anything or anyone else. They have nothing to do with this.  

“I have to throw my darts, so I’m not concerned with what others think about me. 

“Darts is an individual sport, a solo career.  

“I was in a difficult position, so I had to take a step back.  

“That was daring, but only then can I possibly take several steps forward in the long term.  

“I have received a lot of support since then, sometimes from surprising quarters. 

“That was fun. They think it’s brave what I’m doing and have a lot of respect for my choice. 

“And they wish me all the best. There is more to life than darts, I am sometimes told.  

“They are right. I have played all the tournaments for a long time, but now I know that I have to manage much more.” 

Image by Taylor Lanning.