"I'm feeling confident but I had the feeling that there was a bit more in the tank and I think I could have done a little bit more but overall I think it was a good performance. He started off poorly but you still need to answer on that," said Van Gerwen post match.
"At this moment, I'm starting to get my focus back. I know there's some more damage to do."
On the fans returning at the World Championship, Van Gerwen was glad but is set on the task at hand: "Thank god, it would be nice of course, it's still far away. You still need to adjust on the rules at the moment but first I want to make sure I keep concentrating in this tournament so I don't want to make any mistakes."
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.
CLINICAL VAN GERWEN!
Michael van Gerwen may not have hit a single 180 but he still averages 103.34 in a 6-3 win over Darius Labanauskas!
MvG only missed one dart at a double all game!
📺 Up next 👉 Gerwyn Price v John Henderson