Van Barneveld after losing out to Van Gerwen in NZ Darts Masters final: 'I'm sorry I couldn't say goodbye with the title'

Raymond van Barneveld lost out to Michael van Gerwen for the second year in a row in New Zealand with the Dutch legend despite seemingly having nothing left in the tank in the final, showing that his best is still there.

Van Barneveld spoke after losing 8-1 to MVG and lauded praise on the crowd saying that he is so thankful for the crowd and that he is sorry he couldn't leave with the title as a result.

It has made Barney optimistic for the rest of the year though with the retiring five time World Champion saying that he is going to go home, rest and get ready for the rest of 2019.

“How can you be sad when the crowd is so amazing?" said Van Barneveld. "I am so thankful for this crowd and I’m sorry I couldn’t say gzoodbye with the title.

“I have had an amazing week and I just want to say thank you to the PDC and all the staff for making this a fantastic trip.

“There is a lot left to play for this year so it is time to go home, rest and get ready for the rest of the year.”