THROWBACK VIDEO: Van Gerwen hits 18 perfect darts and nine-darter at UK Open against Cross

The UK Open takes place this weekend albeit with continued behind closed doors at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes.

But ahead of the tournament starting known by many as the FA Cup of Darts, DartsNews take a look back at some of the best moments and matches in the history of the tournament.

Read also

Draw released for 2021 UK Open: Van Barneveld set for big stage return against in-form Soutar

Prize Money breakdown for the 2021 UK Open Darts with £450,000 on offer

What better way to start than with Michael Van Gerwen’s 18 perfect darts and nine-darter against Rob Cross.

Back in 2016, Cross was just an amateur but this tournament was his breakthrough as he went on to win the Challenge Tour then the rest is history as he became World Champion.

But at the UK Open, he met a Van Gerwen towards the peak of his powers. He hit a 170 checkout followed by a nine-darter followed by another 170 in one of the finest displays in recent times.