Van Gerwen inspired by Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen: 'If anyone deserved the world title, it was Max'

Michael van Gerwen starts his World Darts Championship on Saturday evening. The man from Vlijmen will take on Chas Barstow, ranked 101st on the PDC Order of Merit.

It will be Van Gerwen's first obstacle to what could be his fourth world title. Mighty Mike previously won the most important tournament of the year in 2014, 2017 and 2019.

Van Gerwen was especially dominant in the 2017 edition. The 32-year-old Dutchman threw a tournament average of 106.32 during that world championship.

''I don't think anyone has ever played a better World Championship than I did that year'', Van Gerwen told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf. My level was incredibly high and especially the semi-final against Raymond van Barneveld is one I won't easily forget. In that match I had an average of 114.05. I felt really good and looking back it was one of the best tournaments of my life. I certainly believe I can reach that level again, because if I don't believe in it, who will?"

The world number three recently saw another top Dutch athlete, Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen, become world champion. A result from which Van Gerwen can also draw inspiration.

''What that boy has done is truly world class. And not only him. Together with his father they have dedicated their lives to Formula 1, with only one goal in mind: to become world champions. Last weekend was the ultimate reward. That they managed to do that is really brilliant. Of course he was lucky in the last lap, but if anyone deserved the title, it was Max. I hope I will soon be standing with the winner's trophy in my hands like him, because only then will my World Championship be a success."