Van Gerwen surprised after news about upcoming retirement Van Barneveld: 'But I can understand it'

''It's not a weird decision from Raymond. When you felt beaten too often, it's difficult to recharge the batteries everytime. I can understand that'', Van Gerwen said to Dutch newspaper Algemeen Dagblad about Van Barneveld's decision. As the 51-year-old Dutchman is going to retire at the age of 52, Van Gerwen certainly does not intend to continue his professional career that long. The world number one hinted at a farewell before. "At the age Raymond now has (51, ed.) I do not think I will throw a lot of darts. I know that for sure.'' Van Gerwen also looked back on to Gary Anderson (12-16) at the Grand Slam of Darts on Sunday afternoon. ''It's not going my way a few times now. A few percent, that's what it's all about, I will be fine again.'' Anderson failed to win the Grand Slam himself, as Gerwyn Price in the final. ''That happened before'', said the Dutchman. ''If they have beaten me, then they don't win the tournament. That's a shame, because you will not defeat me that often.''