25/07/2021

Van den Bergh on potential of back-to-back World Matchplay titles: "It would be a dream come true"

Dimitri van den Bergh will face off against Peter Wright in the final of the 2021 World Matchplay after coming from 6-2 down to defeat Krzysztof Ratajski 17-9.

Van den Bergh spoke afterwards and believed the key to the game was Ratajski falling apart of sorts.

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"I went 4-1 down and I was like Dimi what's going on, what are you doing, what's happening. Why are you not getting comfortable, why are you not getting that first dart in the treble," said Van den Bergh post match.

"I got lucky, the crowd went on my back. Krzysztof was missing a lot of doubles and I was taking my chances and suddenly after being 4-1 down after the first five legs, I managed to win this game 17-9."

"I think Krzysztof kind of lost it. I never give up, I always dig deep. I'm one of them fighters but I really think Krzysztof had a few chances on his doubles that he missed then I had my chance to step in and I took it. That's how I battled back."

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Facing Wright

For Van den Bergh next, it will be Wright who many will note let Van den Bergh stay with him during the Coronavirus pandemic and he said the chance to defend it against him is 'incredible'.

"All the people that are looking up to me, I'm really happy that I've got all these fans. I've been a pro now for the past seven or eight years but I've given myself time to learn. I'm 27 and I have a big chance winning it to be number four in the world, dreams are coming true."

"I've been accepted by the whole family as their adopted son. I've learned a lot from Peter Wright. He took care of me for three months then suddenly I get on the World Matchplay stage and manage to win it. I can defend it against him, that would be incredible."

“It would be a dream come true to be the back-to-back World Matchplay champion.

"I've done it before with the World Youth Championship and to have the chance to win this in front of a crowd is a dream. I want to give the crowd a fantastic game, and I would love to lift the trophy again.”