"Michael really protected her, I thought that was real class" – Van Gerwen earns respect after calm stance regarding the private situation

The way Michael van Gerwen has handled the recent media attention surrounding his private life has earned him praise, even beyond the darts circuit. After his split from ex-wife Daphne Govers, the three-time world champion remained strikingly composed, a stance that former top cyclist Leontien van Moorsel says chiefly reflects a sense of responsibility.

The breakup between Van Gerwen and Govers was announced in May 2025. At the time, Van Gerwen revealed he would temporarily withdraw from the tournament circuit. “With sadness, I want to let you know that Daphne and I have decided to end our relationship. As a result, I have withdrawn from the upcoming tournaments,” he said then in a statement.

Govers recently spoke herself in an interview on Shownieuws. She indicated that the mutual relationship is now back to normal. “We’re on the same page about many things. At first he was very angry, which is understandable. But after that, yes… It was quite soon that he became open to reason. That we could talk normally. You still think in the interests of your children. They come first. I can only respect that he managed to do that so quickly.”

The broadcast sparked plenty of reactions, with Govers facing online criticism. Van Gerwen publicly defended her and stated that the program had played “dirty games.” He made it clear he did not blame his ex-wife for anything.

That response did not go unnoticed. Leontien van Moorsel expressed her appreciation for Van Gerwen’s stance. According to her, he shows he can place the situation above personal emotions.

“Michael really protected her. If my man had done that to me, I certainly wouldn’t have protected him. But that does credit to Michael, because they have two children together. I thought that was real class. When something like this happens and, in such a short time, you protect your ex like that, I think you truly do it for the kids. That does him credit. He has been in a lot of pain, but he shows he can rise above it.”

Aside from his private situation, Van Gerwen is also working on himself. In recent months, he has undergone a clear physical transformation and lost more than twenty kilos. Beyond darts, he found a new outlet in padel, something he has spoken about before.

“I need to work on myself a little, which is sensible. And on the padel court you meet lots of new people and it’s much more sociable than the gym. Now I also take the occasional lesson. And even if someone is much worse than the rest, they can still join in. I really enjoy it.”