"I have to do what is best for myself, not for my opponent" - Dimitri Van den Bergh on criticism of his slow style of play

Dimitri Van den Bergh won the UK Open on Sunday night by defeating Luke Humphries 11-10 in the final. Afterwards, however, he was criticized for his slow style of play.

Van den Bergh took plenty of time before stepping to the oche, especially in the closing stages of the match. The incident was heavily discussed on social media and some analysts also complained. "I don't like how this final was played. Dimitri completely took Luke out of his game by slowing down so much," said former professional and TV pundit Chris Mason.

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"I realize that people are talking about me," said Van den Bergh. "But it's actually very simple, I have to do what's best for me, not for my opponent. Sometimes I just need a little more time to unwind. Not everyone will like me, but I have to accept that.

"During a match I only think about myself and my family, for them I do it," the 29-year-old Belgian continued. "With my opponent I'm not concerned at all, let alone consciously trying to take them out of their game."

Van den Bergh recently started working with a sports psychologist. "That collaboration is already bearing fruit. I notice that I am much calmer during matches. In the end of that final, however, I did get nervous, which is why it was so important to take a step back. I was lucky that Luke missed those match darts, but afterwards I was able to finish it off. I'm very proud of myself."

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