Van Gerwen says comeback announcement Van Barneveld isn't smart: 'He is now putting so much pressure on himself'

Raymond van Barneveld announced on Wednesday that he will make his comeback on the PDC darts circuit in 2021. Fellow Dutchman Michael van Gerwen finds it remarkable that Barney has chosen to publish this news already.

"The flag can be raised again ... No, what should I think of it? I would have done it differently. I had just registered myself shortly before the start of Q-School and then let all the fanfare come over me afterwards. He is now putting so much pressure on himself again'', Van Gerwen told NU.nl.

The five-time world champion will participate in the Q-School in January, where Van Barneveld will try to earn a Tour Card for the PDC Pro Tour circuit. A Tour Card is required to participate in the Players Championship tournaments, which allow players to qualify for the majors.

Van Gerwen is not surprised by the decision of the 53-year-old from The Hague. "I'm actually not that surprised. This is typically Raymond. You noticed that he didn't really support his retirement, apparently he hasn't thought about it long enough. Who knows, I may retire earlier now'', the world number one joked.

Whether he thinks Barney's comeback will be a success? "I'm not sure yet, also because the also players have become stronger. He needs to increase a couple levels. I heard Ben (de Kok, his new manager, ed.) said that Raymond goes for a walk on the beach every morning. I will have to meet him there.''