ProTour crisis for Michael van Gerwen? Latest crushing defeat heralds unwanted statistic

Michael van Gerwen's latest defeat, at the hands of Mario Vandenbogaerde, is his eighth loss from 17 games this year, in what is rapidly becoming a ProTour crisis for the Dutchman.

'Mighty Mike' has exited in the first round on five occasions in the Players Championship (PC) this year, including his last four, losing to Rhys Griffin at PC12, Maik Kuivenhoven at PC11, and Niko Springer at PC7, before Vandenbogaerde today at PC13.

The losing streak has highlighted a worrying pattern for Van Gerwen, who has struggled to hit consistent form this year and has recently fought against injury. The Dutchman was forced to pull out of Berlin's Premier League Darts night with an injury to his neck, which his friend later confirmed was sustained while trying on a new shirt.

And MVG has won just one of his last five games since, including all three PC first round exits. Today's loss saw Van Gerwen throw at an 86 average, and at an appalling 67 average over the last three legs against Vandenbogaerde.

Van Gerwen will have a chance to avenge his loss tomorrow at PC14, and will feature in the Field German Darts Grand Prix in Munich on the weekend as he looks to return to form.

Elsewhere in PC13, Wessel Nijman kicked off his day in the best possible way by smashing Rob Owen 6-0 averaging 111, and pinning a sensational nine-dart-leg on the way.

Gerwyn Price and Josh Rock are also into round two after defeating Martin Dragt and Cor Dekker, respectively.

Nathan Aspinall, Dave Chisnall, Chris Dobey and Martin Schindler are also among the names who have progressed.