Gian van Veen has rapidly become a household name among darts fans. After his sensational run to the final of the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship and his calm, assured presence on the oche, the 23-year-old Dutchman has firmly announced himself on the sport’s biggest stage. But behind his distinctive first name lies a deeply emotional story that many supporters are only now discovering — because Gian van Veen is not the name he was given at birth.
The current world number three on the PDC Order of Merit was officially registered as Pieter Gerard van Veen. Although he has been known as Gian since childhood, the meaning behind that name only came to light this week on Dutch television. The story was revealed on SBS6’s De Oranjewinter, where darts commentator and presenter Koert Westerman appeared as a guest.
A strange, yet heartbreaking story
Westerman, who is well known for his work with Viaplay, explained how Pieter Gerard became Gian. “It’s actually a strange, yet heartbreaking story,” he began. In the neighbourhood where Van Veen grew up, a young boy named Gian tragically passed away.
“The impact on the area was so immense that his parents decided to call their own son Gian, so that boy would never be forgotten,” Westerman explained.
It is a remarkable and touching gesture — one that offers a deeper insight into the background and character of a player now embraced by the Dutch sporting public. The symbolism of the story was not lost on viewers, especially given what followed. “And then he goes on to play in a World Championship final,” Westerman added. “We enjoyed him so much.”
Making his mark on the world stage
Although Van Veen ultimately lost the final 7–1 to English prodigy Luke Littler, his impact on the tournament was undeniable. The reigning European champion produced a series of outstanding performances, eliminating former world champions Luke Humphries and Gary Anderson on his route to the final.
His maturity at the oche, composed body language and gracious post-match interviews drew widespread praise. “It’s a shame he lost the final, but the way he reacted was brilliant,” Westerman said. “He accepted the defeat. Everything about him is right — his character and his darts.”
A smart and mature rise
Van Veen’s rapid rise has been reflected in the world rankings. His run at Alexandra Palace propelled him up to third in the PDC Order of Merit, overtaking fellow Dutchman Michael van Gerwen. Yet despite the milestone, Van Veen has remained strikingly modest — something Westerman views as a sign of intelligence and maturity.
It is perhaps fitting that Van Veen carries the nickname “The Giant” — not just for his physical presence, but for the authority and calm he brings to the stage.
Premier League awaits
Van Veen’s breakthrough has not gone unnoticed by the PDC. Next month, he will make his Premier League Darts debut, joining an elite group of the sport’s biggest names. The World Championship finalist was an automatic and expected inclusion in the prestigious eight-man line-up.
Alongside Van Veen, Luke Littler, Luke Humphries, Michael van Gerwen, Jonny Clayton, Stephen Bunting, Gerwyn Price and Josh Rock will compete in the 2026 Premier League. For both Van Veen and Rock, it will mark their first appearance in the competition — another milestone in what is shaping up to be an extraordinary career.
From a name born out of remembrance to a presence now commanding the world stage, Gian van Veen’s story is already one of meaning, maturity and remarkable promise.
