In a disappointing turn of events, three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen has announced that he will not compete in this weekend’s Swiss Darts Trophy due to illness. The Dutch darting superstar, affectionately known as ‘Mighty Mike,’ shared the news on his social media, citing health concerns.
“Unfortunately, I have to withdraw from the Swiss Darts Trophy this weekend as I’m not feeling well,” Van Gerwen wrote. “Not the news I wanted, but health comes first. I’ll be back stronger soon!”
This means Van Gerwen will miss out on the first-ever PDC European Tour event in Switzerland, taking place at the St. Jakobshalle in Basel from September 27 to 29. Fans were eagerly looking forward to seeing one of the darts’ greatest players in action, but they’ll have to wait for his return.
A Recent High in Budapest
The news of Van Gerwen’s withdrawal comes just days after he celebrated a major victory at the Hungarian Darts Trophy. Last week, the 35-year-old clinched his first Euro Tour title in sixteen months in Budapest. He showed incredible form, defeating top players like Martin Lukeman, Gabriel Clemens, Josh Rock, Ross Smith, and Gian van Veen to lift the trophy. In a nail-biting final, Van Gerwen triumphed over van Veen in a close 8-7 win, marking a much-needed return to form.
Illness Strikes in England
Following his victory in Hungary, Van Gerwen was set to compete in two Players Championship events in Leicester, England, earlier this week. The Dutchman had flown to the UK on Monday, ready to take part in back-to-back tournaments on Tuesday and Wednesday. However, shortly after arriving, Van Gerwen began feeling unwell and had to withdraw from both events.
With three more Players Championship tournaments scheduled next week, it remains uncertain if Van Gerwen will compete in those. He had previously mentioned that they were not part of his schedule, but his next major tournament, the World Grand Prix, is fast approaching. The prestigious event will take place in Leicester from October 7 to 13, giving Van Gerwen time to recover and refocus.
What’s Next for Van Gerwen?
As one of the most decorated players in darts history, Van Gerwen will be missed on the European Tour stage in Switzerland. However, his health is the priority. Fans will be eagerly awaiting his return, with hopes that “Mighty Mike” will be back in top form for the upcoming World Grand Prix.
In the meantime, the Swiss Darts Trophy will go on without one of its biggest stars. But as Van Gerwen said, “I’ll be back stronger soon!”
Conclusion
While it’s disappointing that Van Gerwen won’t be part of the action in Basel, his health comes first. As the darting world prepares for the World Grand Prix, all eyes will be on his recovery and return to the oche. Stay tuned for updates as the darting legend works his way back to full strength.
