Masters champion Michael van Gerwen hails "perfect start" to 2018

Michael van Gerwen has not exactly joined the pantheon of Masters champions. As one of only three winners, it is more of a well-furnished shed.

Van Gerwen has well and truly stamped his mark on this tournament. An 11-8 win over Raymond van Barneveld made it four Masters titles in a row for Mighty Mike. A 105 average, his 23rd straight ton-plus TV average, sealed the deal. The world number one expressed his delight at kicking off 2018 in style.
"I think this is the perfect start to the year. I played a good tournament and hit some big averages against some great players," he said.
"Everyone wants a good start to the year and I've started well."
Van Gerwen paid tribute to compatriot van Barneveld, who led 4-1 and 8-5 in the final.
"Raymond had a phenomenal tournament, he played well in the final and he didn't give a lot away. When you give him a finger he takes your hand, but I'm glad that I fought back," van Gerwen said.
"I'm trying my best all the time and I want to win every tournament that I play in, so I'm really glad that I can take this trophy home."
The Masters was the first event of the 2018 major calendar, and the first major since the World Championship. Van Gerwen's dreams of a third world title were shattered in a thrilling semi-final defeat to Rob Cross. But the Green Machine insists he is now over the pain of failure.
"I had a big disappointment in the World Championship but you need to be strong. I went on holiday and came back stronger and I'm really proud of myself. I'd like to have more days like this," he said.
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