VAN VEEN REVEALS HE NEARLY QUIT DARTS
25/10/2025 By Aaron Nijjar
GIAN VAN VEEN has revealed he “nearly quit darts” during his battle with dartitis.
‘The Giant’ smashed Ryan Searle 10-2 with a stunning 109.92 average, sealing victory with a 170 checkout to storm into the quarter-finals of the European Championship.
World No. 15 Van Veen is enjoying a breakout season as he won his first ProTour crown at Players Championship Six and also reached back-to-back major quarter-finals at the UK Open and World Matchplay.
But the 23-year-old says his career was almost over before it truly began.
He said: “When I struggled with dartitis I nearly quit darts.
“I felt like I didn’t want to play anymore.
“But I kept on going and at this moment I am really happy I did because I could have had an office job every day from 9-5.
“But here I am and it’s a struggle having dartitis. I know what it’s like.
“I think winning games and getting confidence is what helped me get through it.
“It’s been a massive road but I am lucky I’m still playing darts.”
The Dutchman has been tipped for a potential Premier League call up next year after an impressive 2025 campaign.
Van Veen admits it would be a dream come true to feature in the major tournament.
He added: “I’m always happy to be in contention for the Premier League. If everybody is mentioning my name then I am already happy.
“As soon as I get the invite I will definitely accept it. I’m still No. 15 in the world but only eight players are allowed to play.
“There are so many players before me but as long as I keep putting in these performances then who knows.”
World Youth Champ Van Veen is convinced that a maiden TV title is now on the horizon after months of consistent form and growing confidence.
He continued: “I’ve been showing it on the Euro Tour all year.
“Whenever I lost a game it was always a high-quality game.
“I never disappointed myself in regard to dropping my average below 90.
“I always knew this was in the locker but of course to do it on TV and at the European Championship shows everyone what I am capable of.
“So, who knows — maybe a big stage title is just around the corner.”
