Michael van Gerwen tears into rival with brutal putdown after crushing European Darts Grand Prix win

Michael van Gerwen didn’t hold back after dismissing Michael Unterbuchner at the European Darts Grand Prix, bluntly stating his opponent is “not good enough” following a comfortable victory.

The Dutch star powered into the third round with a convincing 6–2 win, producing a solid 91 average and highlighting his performance with a clinical 102 checkout.

Tensions had already been brewing before the match. Unterbuchner had raised eyebrows a day earlier when asked about facing the three-time world champion, responding dismissively: “Against who?”

Van Gerwen clearly hadn’t forgotten the remark. After backing up his status on the oche, he fired back with a ruthless assessment of the German’s level.

“He didn’t make a joke,” Van Gerwen said. “He’s one of those guys who tries to be funny. But he’s never beaten me in his life.

“He’s not good enough — even my B game or C game is enough to beat him. But it doesn’t matter. On to the next one.

“And if he doesn’t know who I am, then who am I? The day I start worrying about someone like Unterbuchner is the day I stop playing darts.”

Despite the comfortable scoreline, Van Gerwen admitted his performance wasn’t flawless, pointing to one scrappy leg in particular.

“I had some really good legs, but that one with double one was a disaster,” he added. “Still, I won it, and that’s what counts in the end.

“The crowd is enjoying it, and that’s what matters most. It’s been a while since I’ve won here, so hopefully I can give it a proper go again tomorrow.”

Van Gerwen has fond memories at this event, having lifted the title twice before—in 2016 and 2018—and he’s now chasing a third crown.

Currently ranked world No.4, he continues that pursuit on Sunday afternoon when he faces fellow Dutchman Jermaine Wattimena for a place in the quarter-finals.

“Of course I’ve got a good record here,” Van Gerwen said. “I’ve known Jermaine for years, going back to when we were young players.

“To be honest, I’ve usually had the upper hand against him. But he’s a quality player, and right now he’s playing some very good darts. So I’ll need to make sure I’m at my best tomorrow.”