Michael van Gerwen was at his brilliant best in Madison Square Gardens as he destroyed Jeff Smith 8-0, to take the US Darts Masters title for the second time in his career.
“It means a lot to me to win this trophy. It was our second year here at Madison Square Garden and I have never won a title at such an iconic venue like this, so it’s another one off the bucket list!" A delighted van Gerwen revealed post-match to the PDC's official website.
After comfortably seeing off Jake Macmillan and Jim Davis, van Gerwen survived a match dart in his semi-final with Rob Cross before whitewashing Jeff Smith 8-0 in the final.
“I had three big wins, but the game against Rob Cross was a bit weird," continues the Dutchman. “You need to try to keep your focus. It’s not easy but I managed to do it, and to finish it off with an 11-darter always gives you a lot of pleasure."
“Jeff definitely ran out of steam in the final. He had a really tough day and that’s part of darts unfortunately, but I took advantage. I am glad I won. I am a proud man.”
Michael van Gerwen lifts the US Darts Masters trophy for the second time 🏆🏆
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) June 4, 2023
What an incredible weekend in The Big Apple 🍎 pic.twitter.com/oYCZp9o9tM