DORTMUND, October 26, 2025 – Dutch darts star Gian van Veen, 23, produced a performance of remarkable resilience to defeat Michael van Gerwen 11–9 in the semi-finals of the 2025 Machineseeker European Darts Championship, before claiming his first major title with an 11–10 victory over Luke Humphries in the final.
The world No. 15 showed exceptional composure under pressure, rallying from behind to edge past van Gerwen in one of the tournament’s most thrilling encounters. “It was a mental battle from start to finish,” van Veen said after the match. “I just kept believing and found a way to win.”
A Battle of Nerves in the Semi-Final
Van Veen faced early challenges against van Gerwen, trailing 7–5 before producing a brilliant 160 checkout to level at 9–9. The deciding leg showcased his trademark focus and determination—after missing two match darts at double 12, he regrouped to take out 100 with treble 16 and double 16 for the 11–9 triumph.
That confidence carried through to the final, where he maintained a 97.2 average and took the title with another 100 checkout on double 16. The victory earned van Veen £120,000 and a jump to world No. 7, marking a huge step in his professional career.
| Match | Result | Average | Key Moment |
|---|---|---|---|
| QF vs. Ryan Joyce | 10–5 Win | 101.4 | 7 maximums, dominant display |
| SF vs. Michael van Gerwen | 11–9 Win | 98.5 | 160 finish to level; 100 to seal win |
| Final vs. Luke Humphries | 11–10 Win | 97.2 | Survived match dart; 100 on double 16 |
Van Veen’s Rise to Stardom
Turning professional in 2023 with a two-year PDC Tour Card, van Veen’s journey has been one of steady progress and persistence. His 2025 season has been a breakout year—claiming the Players Championship 6 title with an 8–3 win over Humphries, and reaching two European Tour finals prior to his triumph in Dortmund.
“This win means everything,” he said. “It’s been a long road of hard work and learning from every match. To lift a major trophy is a dream come true.”
The £120,000 victory also strengthens his case for inclusion in the 2026 Premier League Darts, with van Veen joking afterward, “Barry Hearn, if you’re listening—I’m ready!”
Reaction from the Darts World
Fans and pundits alike hailed van Veen’s remarkable composure and fighting spirit.
- Wayne Mardle, Sky Sports analyst: “To beat MVG in that fashion was phenomenal. He’s fearless and mentally strong—signs of a future champion.”
- Luke Humphries: “Gian was outstanding all weekend. He deserves the title.”
- Luke Littler: “Fair play—what a talent.”
Social media buzzed under the hashtag #VanVeenVictory, with fans calling his run “inspirational” and praising his coolness under pressure.
What’s Next for Gian van Veen
With his first major title secured and a top-10 world ranking, van Veen is now seen as one of the brightest young stars in darts. The next stop is Alexandra Palace for the 2025/26 PDC World Darts Championship, where expectations will be high.
“Winning a major gives you belief,” van Veen said. “Now I want to keep improving, keep competing, and keep challenging the very best.”
