MICHAEL VAN GERWEN brutally labelled opponent Wessel Nijman “a choker” after he came from behind to beat his fellow Dutchman 6-5 at the European Championship.
Mighty Mike was on the brink of being dumped out of the tournament in the opening round after finding himself 4-2 down against Nijman.
He survived seven match darts before fighting back and winning a nervy decider – and then gave a bullish post-match interview.
When asked if he was relieve to edge into the next round, he insisted he made it hard for himself.
He said: “Not relieved, no. I just made it very difficult for myself. I missed three darts to win 6–4, then made it exciting again. Luckily, I managed to take it in the last leg.
“I knew this could happen. When it really matters, Wessel often fails. He’s a bit of a choker, so I just kept faith.
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“The last leg from me was bad, but I kept believing. When you still get the chance and he’s fumbling, you have to take it.
“The first ten legs were played at a really high level — everything was under 15 darts. Not many players can do that. It’s just a shame it got so messy after that.”
He did offer some praise for the world No 37, who is yet to reach a televised quarter-final in 12 attempts – despite winning Players Championship 30.
Van Gerwen added: “Wessel’s been doing fantastic lately. I have a lot of respect for what he’s showing.
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“But now he needs to do it on stage too, and that’s where he still struggles. A shame for him — but good for me.”
There is a £120,000 prize pot on offer for Van Gerwen if he can go all the way and claim victory this weekend.
He is looking to bounce back after missing out on the Players Championship finals for the first time in his career.
Van Gerwen has been going through a difficult time away from the oche after splitting from partner Daphe after 11 years together.
He recently said he was prioritising his family amid a difficult moment and vowed to spend more time with his children.
Meanwhile, his father Henri has been battling cancer to sum up a painful year for the three-time world champion.
His close pal Vincent van der Voort admitted the player was struggling after a number of setbacks away from darts.
“I understand what’s happening at home for him. I’ve spoken to him – you can tell he puts on a brave face in public, but behind that there’s emptiness. It’s all hitting him.”
“I believe he’s genuinely struggling, but it comes across oddly. You can go to festivals and everything, but then not play darts for two days? Maybe it’s mental.
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“He’s really struggling with himself now. For example, the dogs are gone—it’s quiet and empty at home. I understand that he wants to go out for dinner, to get away.
“That might make more sense than sitting on the couch on a Saturday night thinking too much. I understand it, but I’m worried about his career.”
