The world of professional darts is often filled with drama, both on and off the oche. Recently, Michael van Gerwen, a dominant force in the sport for over a decade, found himself in the midst of a controversy after facing accusations of being “lazy.” These claims, emerging during a period of fluctuating form, triggered a strong response from the typically outspoken Dutchman.
Van Gerwen’s 2025 has been a year of contrasts. He began the year on a high note, reaching the final of the World Championship. However, his performance since then has been inconsistent, with fewer tournament victories than fans have come to expect. This dip in form has coincided with a particularly challenging Premier League Darts campaign, where he faces the possibility of missing the play-offs for the first time in several years.
The Premier League, a grueling test of skill and endurance, has been a significant battleground for van Gerwen. Struggling to secure nightly wins, he’s found himself trailing behind the current frontrunners. This has led to increased scrutiny from fans and pundits alike, with some questioning his dedication and preparation.
It was against this backdrop that the accusations of “laziness” surfaced. These claims, often amplified on social media, clearly struck a nerve with van Gerwen. Known for his intense focus and relentless drive, he was quick to defend his work ethic.
“I’ve been working and practicing a lot,” van Gerwen asserted, emphasizing the effort he consistently puts into his game. “Of course, it doesn’t always pay out, but I’m doing the work.” His response highlighted the frustration of a top athlete facing criticism, especially when it contradicts their own perception of their commitment.
Van Gerwen also addressed the difficulty outsiders have in truly understanding the demands of a professional darts player. “Sometimes when you’re too busy, people don’t know my schedule,” he pointed out. He suggested that only a select few, perhaps those with similar levels of experience, truly grasp the relentless schedule and pressures involved in competing at the highest level of the sport. He stated that only people like Phil Taylor, and now perhaps Luke Littler, could truly understand the demands of his schedule over the past 13 or 14 years.
“They’ve never been in that position,” he said, referring to those who are quick to judge. For van Gerwen, the only effective response to such criticism is performance on the oche. “I have to just answer with performances,” he stated, underlining his belief that results speak louder than words.
Despite the current challenges, van Gerwen remains defiant. “I’ve been in tough positions before as well, I had some other tough patches in my life, but you always survive,” he declared, drawing on his past experiences to fuel his resilience. He expressed unwavering self-belief, saying, “I know what I’m capable of. Believe in your own ability and then the rest will come automatically.”
Van Gerwen acknowledged the cyclical nature of a professional sporting career. “It’s like a big rollercoaster at the moment, and things don’t always go my way,” he admitted. However, he also reiterated his confidence in his own abilities, stating, “Of course, I say, when I’m on top of my game, I know I can beat anyone, probably be the best player in the world.”
Ultimately, van Gerwen recognizes that he is the one who must address his current form. “But I don’t show it enough at the moment, and that’s a question I have to answer myself to solve it and to make sure I’m going to turn it around.”
The situation surrounding van Gerwen serves as a reminder of the intense pressures faced by professional athletes. The scrutiny from fans, the demands of a grueling schedule, and the constant need to perform at the highest level can take a toll, even on the most seasoned competitors. Van Gerwen’s response to the criticism offers a glimpse into the mindset of a champion determined to overcome adversity and reclaim his position at the top of the sport.
Leave a Reply