VIDEO: Gian van Veen reveals his biggest fears, favourite film character and surprising weakness ahead of 2026 PDC World Darts Championship

Gian van Veen firmly established himself at the top of the darts world this year. The 23-year-old Dutchman won his first PDC major title by beating England’s Luke Humphries 11–10 in the final of the European Championship. Van Veen has since climbed into the world’s top 10 and is considered one of the dark horses for the upcoming World Darts Championship.

His new status also means Van Veen is now in high demand for interviews. On the Facebook page of German darts influencer Sarah Milkowska, he was given a series of pointed questions.

Milkowska first asked what Van Veen is afraid of. “I used to be afraid of sharks — but I love sharks now,” Van Veen said. “But the weirdest thing I feared as a child? Darkness probably."

When asked about his favourite fictional character, Van Veen didn’t need long. “Probably Woody from Toy Story. I think those films are brilliant.”

And if an actor had to play him in a film, he has a clear preference too. “I’m not really a move person, but I'd love to be played by Adam Sandler,” he said with conviction.

The World Championship traditionally takes place in winter. “But my favourite season is summer. I really love good weather, and summer always brings joy to people’s lives,” Van Veen said.

Finally, Milkowska wanted to know which hobby Van Veen is particularly bad at. “I really enjoy playing padel, but I’m honestly terrible at it,” he laughed.

Van Veen begins his 2026 PDC World Darts Championship campaign next week, on Friday 12 December, facing Spain’s Cristo Reyes in the opening round. With the Dutchman still yet to win on the iconic Ally Pally stage, Van Veen will be hoping his standout 2025 campaign can continue to break new ground this December.

If he wins, he will meet the winner of the match between Scotland’s Alan Soutar and Finland’s Teemu Harju in the second round.