"My recent results are not what I wished for" - Michael van Gerwen with point to prove at World Darts Championship

Michael van Gerwen has been trying in vain for a fourth world title since 2019. But despite his lesser form this year, the 35-year-old Dutchman still believes he will be ready to peak in time to star at the Alexandra Palace. Van Gerwen will make his first appearance at this year's Worlds on Friday, Dec. 20th.

The importance of the World Darts Championship is beyond question for Van Gerwen. "It’s the biggest tournament of the year. Everyone is looking forward to it, especially me," Van Gerwen says to the PDC's official website. “I didn’t have the best preparation so far, but there’s still a few weeks to go, so a lot can change in that time, but I’m feeling good, and that’s the most important thing."

“There is a lot at stake for everyone – the World Championship is bigger than ever, so I need to make sure I’m ready for it," the three-time world champion continues, insisting that the current run of surprising major winners won't continue at the World Championship. “I think in this year’s World Championship you are going to see more familiar faces. You can’t compare the World Championship with any other tournament. It’s a different emotion, different pressure, different vibe. Everything is different because it’s the most important tournament of the year, so it should be different!"

'MVG' also believes the fact he's been there and done it on the Ally Pally stage could hold him in good stead. “My experience could be really important," he notes. "But for me, the most important thing is that my preparation takes off well."

Van Gerwen, who is starting as third seed, will take on the winner of the duel between James Hurrell and Jim Long in the second round. Despite the fact 'Mighty Mike' did not win any major titles this year, he nevertheless believes in a good result at the Alexandra Palace.

"I don’t have to deny that my recent results are not what I wished for, but you need to make sure all your focus goes in the right direction," Van Gerwen concludes. "All my eyes are on the World Championship, and I’m going to work really hard to make sure I’m ready for my first match.”