Van Gerwen on wrist surgery after opening World Matchplay win: "It was a big risk but I didn't have a choice"

Michael van Gerwen wasn't at his best as he saw off Adrian Lewis in a game which didn't live up to the pre match billing but it was all about getting the job done as he opened up his World Matchplay account.

"Wasn't too well but the most important thing was that I won my game. I know it wasn't the best but today the doubles was my key. I didn't feel well all day also this afternoon, I had a headache and with heat like this, you can have a lot of headaches. It wasn't my day to be fair," said Van Gerwen post match.

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Having surgery on his wrist for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, by his own admission, he is still not 100%.

"I can't really complain too much about that to be fair. Tournaments like this are more suitable for me as you play one night, get a day off. If you play the ProTour, you play so many games so many hours on a one day, that is not suitable yet."

"I wasn't ready for the ProTours, too long days for me. It's why I went on holiday. I know in my practice, when I play a lot it starts to get itchy.

"I feel good otherwise I wouldn't be playing in this tournament. Only thing I have to focus on myself and my Tuesday night game against Joe Cullen and I'm looking forward to that one."

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He also admitted that it was a risk having the surgery but one that he had to take due to the ramifications for his career.

"It was a big risk for me of course. I didn't have a choice, I had to do it or otherwise I could have permanent wrist damage and you don't want to cause that for yourself."

Next up is Joe Cullen who he beat in the Premier League final and he spoke well of his opponent.

"Joe is a good guy, phenomenal player. In two days it's a totally different evening.

As well as about Adrian Lewis admitting again that he hasn't used his talent and ability to its full.

"I keep saying this and I said the same to his face, with his ability and talent, he should have won so much more. But he's too relaxed sometimes and that's his biggest danger."