VAN GERWEN ROARS BACK AFTER CRISIS OF CONFIDENCE
06/09/2025 By Aaron Nijjar
MICHAEL VAN GERWEN confessed he has battled a crisis of confidence over the past year but lit up Prague with a reminder of his brilliance.
Three-times World Champ Van Gerwen CRUSHED Mike De Decker 6-0 in round two of the Czech Darts Open, averaging a staggering 112.73 and nailing a spectacular 154 checkout.
World No. 3 Van Gerwen has been below par in 2025 and has not gone beyond the fifth round in his last three majors.
After months of inconsistency, the Dutchman says the win against De Decker was a much-needed boost for his self-belief.
He said: “I think I played a fantastic game especially the first five legs it was of a very high standard.
“But to do this again it feels amazing because it has been a while for me.
“It has been hard for me the last few months and to do this in front of this crowd is amazing.
“The Czech crowd have always been so good to me and I can only appreciate that.
“It is a tough sport sometimes especially when you are not playing your A-game.
“So, with all their support I get goose bumps it feels really good.
“Everyone knows if I play my game I can beat anyone on any day, but I have to do it more often.
“My confidence levels have not been great the last few months probably even a year but if I keep working hard like I am now then I can show more performances like this.”
‘Mighty Mike’ is aiming to secure a second Euro Tour crown this year after winning the German Darts Grand Prix in April.
But the 36-year-old has not lifted a major title since the 2023 World Series Finals.
MVG returns to action on Sunday afternoon at the Expo Arena and will face Josh Rock in round three.
Image by Taylor Lanning.
