“Dominating for years? No – I’m still here and I won’t allow that to happen”: Van Gerwen bullish on Littler and Humphries leading darts in coming years

Michael van Gerwen has issued a powerful warning to the next generation of darts superstars, insisting he has no intention of stepping aside as Luke Littler and Luke Humphries rise to the top of the sport.

The three-time world champion has endured a turbulent spell both on and off the oche, with inconsistent form and personal struggles marking a difficult period in his career. But despite the emergence of Littler — now a world champion at just 18 — and Humphries’ rapid accumulation of major titles, Van Gerwen remains adamant that the sport’s new power shift won’t come easily.

Speaking ahead of the upcoming season, the Dutch icon dismissed the idea that darts has already entered a new era shaped solely by Littler and Humphries.

“People keep saying they’re going to dominate for years,” Van Gerwen said. “No. I’m still here, and I won’t allow that to happen. I know what I’m capable of, and I’m working harder than ever to get back to my best.”

Van Gerwen admitted that the last year has been far below his usual standards but insisted that the tough moments have only fuelled his desire for what he calls “a proper comeback.” He acknowledged Littler’s incredible impact and Humphries’ consistency but made it clear that their dominance isn’t a foregone conclusion.

“Luke Littler is an unbelievable talent and Humphries has proven himself at the highest level,” he said. “But domination isn’t just about talent — it’s about mentality, hunger, and surviving pressure year after year. I’ve done that. They still have to.”

The 35-year-old’s confidence comes at a time when many fans and pundits are debating whether darts is undergoing the biggest generational shift since the rise of Van Gerwen himself. Littler’s meteoric ascent and Humphries’ steady brilliance have already reshaped the rankings, with both players pushing each other to new heights.

But Van Gerwen insists the story of darts greatness is far from complete.

“I’ve been written off before,” he added. “Every time that happens, I come back stronger. If they want to dominate, they’ll have to go through me — and that’s not easy.”

With all three stars set for a packed season of majors, rivalries, and huge televised showdowns, Van Gerwen’s message sets the stage for what could become one of the most intense eras in darts rivalry history.

And if his words are anything to go by, the battle for supremacy is only just beginning.