“When you’re playing crap you have to face yourself” — Van Gerwen blunt despite Budapest win

Michael van Gerwen is safely through to the last 16 of the 2025 Hungarian Darts Trophy. The defending champion endured a difficult evening in Budapest, but despite a below-par performance he managed to get the job done and keep alive his hopes of retaining the title.

The Dutchman returned to the venue where last year he not only lifted the trophy but also produced a sensational nine-darter. This time, however, his display lacked sparkle.

“When you’re playing crap you have to face yourself,” Van Gerwen admitted afterwards. “When things aren’t good you always have to be honest, and I’m an honest guy. Especially when you want to play well and then you don’t, it gets harder. You’re frustrated for no reason because there was no reason to panic or to be miserable with myself, do you know what I mean? But this wasn’t a good performance. Simple as that. I think this crowd deserved more.”

Despite that blunt assessment, Van Gerwen remains confident about his chances for the rest of the tournament, hardly surprising given his recent form. Only last weekend he captured the World Series of Darts Finals title, once again proving his knack for winning on the biggest stages.

“Of course, you always want to do well in any game you play,” he said. “But it’s still a long tournament. I bet a lot of these people will be back tomorrow, and tomorrow is another day. I feel good. Of course I didn’t really show it tonight, but who cares? I’m still through to the next round.”

There were several moments in the contest when Van Gerwen looked visibly frustrated at the opportunities his opponent had failed to take.

“Yeah, exactly,” he smiled. “I was practising with him and he was playing some absolutely incredible darts. I think Matthew Dennant is a phenomenal player. But the practice board and the stage are two different stories, do you know what I mean? I think he has too much respect for me – and fair enough, he should – but outside of that, he’s a lovely guy and he has a heart for darts. That’s what you want. I didn’t show my performance today, but hopefully I can tomorrow. I feel good so I don’t see a reason why not.”

With his place in the last 16 secured, Van Gerwen remains on course in his bid to defend the Budapest crown. For the Dutchman it is not just about prestige, but also another reminder of his status as one of the most dominant players of his generation.

Though his display against Dennant was far from convincing, Van Gerwen takes encouragement from the simple fact that he is still in the tournament and feels physically and mentally strong enough to raise his level when it matters most.

“I feel good so I don’t see a reason why not,” he concluded with typical determination.