"Danny, so far, has had the better career": Gian van Veen shows humility and respect towards Noppert ahead of Prague clash

Gian van Veen impressively qualified for the second round of the Czech Darts Open in Prague, the 11th tournament of the European Tour 2025. The 23-year-old Dutchman defeated Maik Kuivenhoven in his opening match. Van Veen trailed 2-0, but then recovered and won 6-3. A new Dutch clash awaits in the next round, this time against Danny Noppert.

"Yeah, I felt way better than last week in Antwerp. I don’t know what it is, but I felt really comfortable today, even though I went 2–0 down," said Van Veen looking back afterwards at the Czech Darts Open. "From then, I really kicked on. Maik played phenomenal, especially in the first part of the game, and he really put me under pressure. I think that’s what got me in the zone today. But, yeah, after 2–0 down, I won the next five legs, and that really is what wins the game."
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The victory over Kuivenhoven marked Van Veen's fifth consecutive win over his compatriot. With that, the Dutchman maintains a flawless Head-to-Head. Still, he has great appreciation for his opponent.

"A hundred percent, yeah. I don’t know what it is. As you said, he’s a great player, and I’ve won all five. I’ve played him before in the Players Championship on the floor, and it’s always a great rhythm to play him. He doesn’t do any nonsense or celebrations, so it’s always great to play Maik. He’s a fantastic player, he always pushes me, and that’s why I played well today."

The draw brings a special encounter in the second round: Gian van Veen against Denny Noppert. A match to savour but the Head-to-Head in previous encounters speaks volumes: eight times the two compatriots played each other, and the score is completely balanced - four wins for each.

"Yeah, I think so. I think Danny, so far, has had the better career, but he’s played many more years on the PDC circuit than I have," he said. "It’s going to be a very close game tomorrow. As always, we’re going to practise together before our game. Danny and I are really great friends, and I’m looking forward to our battle tomorrow."

Although Van Veen himself is often critical of his performance, analysts and fans emphasize that he is still at the beginning of his career. At age 23, he belongs to the new generation of darters who can make a mark on the international circuit in the years to come.

This makes the European Tour not only a stage to collect points, but also a chance to measure himself against the established order. The match against Noppert promises to be a true showdown - a clash between talent and experience, between camaraderie and competition.

For now, however, Van Veen can look back with satisfaction on a strong start in Prague. His sharpness, focus and fighting spirit after a difficult initial phase showed that he is ready to take a step further in his development.