“I know I can do it” – Niels Zonneveld finally topples Michael van Gerwen despite 107 average in Göttingen

Niels Zonneveld produced one of the standout results of his career at the 2026 European Darts Trophy, defeating Michael van Gerwen despite the three time world champion averaging more than 107. The Dutchman kept his composure throughout, producing a superb 104.46 average of his own to secure a historic first victory over “Mighty Mike”.

After the match, Zonneveld admitted the result meant a great deal to him. “What can I say? You’re absolutely right,” he said afterwards. “I’m so happy with this win. I think I needed it.”

For the 27-year-old, the performance felt like a confirmation of the progress he believes he has been making. As he explained, he is now at a stage where “I know I can do it”, and actually delivering that level on a big stage left him “really happy right now, to be honest”.

The all-Dutch clash in the second round of the European Darts Trophy was played at a remarkably high standard. Van Gerwen’s 107 average showed he was performing close to his best, but Zonneveld matched him throughout the contest.

With a 104.46 average, he stayed right alongside one of the most decorated players in the sport before striking at the key moments to secure the win. From Zonneveld’s perspective, the performance simply felt right during the match. “I played really well,” he said. “I felt so comfortable and so focused.”

That focus proved crucial. Against an opponent like Van Gerwen there is very little margin for error, yet Zonneveld managed to maintain his own rhythm and avoid being overwhelmed by the reputation of his opponent.

Interestingly, Zonneveld revealed he paid little attention to the statistics during the match itself. While spectators and analysts marvelled at the numbers on the scoreboard, he remained focused only on his own throws.

“I’m happy with the win,” he said, “but during the match I didn’t think about the averages.”

That approach appears to be serving him well at the moment. Zonneveld had already indicated he was feeling confident about his game, and the victory over Van Gerwen only reinforced that belief.

The win also carried extra significance because Zonneveld had never previously beaten Van Gerwen. In earlier meetings the three time world champion had always come out on top, but in Göttingen Zonneveld finally managed to break that run.

There is little time to celebrate, however, with another difficult test awaiting in the next round against Jermaine Wattimena.

Historically that matchup has not been favourable either. Wattimena has won six of their seven previous meetings, but Zonneveld hopes Göttingen might once again prove a turning point.“I hope so,” he said with a smile. “I hope this crowd is behind me.”

The atmosphere inside the venue certainly appeared to help. The German crowd responded enthusiastically to the quality produced by both players, and Zonneveld visibly fed off that energy during one of the best performances of his career.