Van Veen tipped for multiple world titles: "Says a lot about Gian and about how he looks at the game and how he prepares"

Darts reporter Polly James has no doubts about Gian van Veen’s ceiling. The British presenter, who regularly interviews players at major PDC events, regards the young Dutchman as a future great. She believes Van Veen has all the qualities to become a multiple world champion.

On the Double Tops podcast, James offered insight into the approach of the current world number three. His preparation stood out in particular. While some elite players build up to matches in a relatively relaxed way, Van Veen opts for a meticulous and early routine. "He is an extremely intelligent guy, so well measured as well."

For comparison, James referenced Luke Littler. The English teenage sensation is known for his laid-back attitude toward matches and generally arrives at the venue shortly before he is due on stage.

“Littler will turn up to a tournament maybe about two hours before a game he’s due on.

“Me being there for Sky or whoever, we’re waiting to do that pre-match interview, waiting for his arrival and things. He’ll go in, maybe have an hour chucking on the board, have a pizza, whatever.

According to James, it’s completely different with Van Veen. The Dutchman is routinely on site many hours earlier than most colleagues, especially when he is scheduled in the day’s opening match.

“Gian, whenever he’s playing first at a tournament, I know I have to get there at least six hours before because he is always there so early.

“They all have these routines, but I think that says a lot about Gian and about how he looks at the game and how he prepares.

That discipline, James says, typifies his professionalism. Within the circuit, Van Veen is praised for his calm demeanor and mature approach to the sport, despite his young age.

“He’s an extremely likable guy and obviously has got a good head on his shoulders. And yeah, love him. I can see him being a multiple world champion easily.”

The plaudits are well earned. Under his nickname ‘The Giant’, Van Veen captured his first major last year at 23 by winning the European Championship. It cemented his status among the global elite.

This season he is also making his Premier League Darts debut. Thanks to two runner-up finishes in the first three weeks, he currently sits third in the league standings.