Michael van Gerwen only defeated by 100+ averages at Ally Pally since becoming World Champion

Players in recent years have consistently needed their very best level to beat Michael van Gerwen at the World Darts Championship. Since 'Mighty Mike' captured his first world title in 2014, he has only lost to players who managed to throw an average of above 100 at the Alexandra Palace.

For example, Gary Anderson beat him thanks to an average of 102.20 during the 2015 edition. A year later, it was Raymond van Barneveld who managed to beat his compatriot. In that match, 'Barney' threw an average of 100.44.

After Van Gerwen became world champion for the second time in 2017, he went down against Rob Cross during the 2018 edition. 'Voltage' threw an average of 100.97 points per turn in that epic semi-final encounter.

During the 2019 edition, Van Gerwen became world champion for the third time, his most recent world title. In the past editions, it went wrong against Peter Wright (102.79 average), Dave Chisnall (107.34) average and Michael Smith (100.87 average). Incidentally, Van Gerwen had to leave the 2022 edition without defeat. He became infected with the coronavirus and was then expelled from the World Darts Championship.