Van Duijvenbode came through a hard fought win over compatriot Martijn Kleermaker but admitted afterwards that nerves played a factor and that he didn’t expect to claim the title after recent form.
"We were both nervous," said Van Duijvenbode. "When I thought I could finish it, I was more nervous than him, and then when he needed to stay in it he was more nervous.
"I was in great form the last two series and thought I would win a title but I didn't. The last two days I have been poor, so I went into today just hoping I would win the first round.
"On the one side I know I need to play better, but on the other it is great to win when not playing your best.
"Sometimes you have to win on a bad day, but I always want to play well and that is what I think about - and then it all comes together."
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of DartsNews.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy across professional darts coverage. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces, playing a central role in the development and daily operation of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has extensive experience in darts media and has been closely involved in coverage of the professional darts circuit for several years. Within the UK darts community, he is a recognised figure known for his consistent editorial output and ongoing reporting on major tournaments and developments across the PDC calendar.
In his current role, Samuel works closely with editors and writers to ensure content meets clear journalistic standards, with a focus on source verification, editorial consistency, and timely updates when new, confirmed information becomes available.