Michael van Gerwen issues brutal threat to darts rivals after destroying opponent in record win

Michael van Gerwen fired a warning to his rivals after ending his long wait for silverware with victory at Players Championship 15.

The Dutch superstar claimed his first floor title since October 2024 by defeating fellow countryman Dirk van Duijvenbode 8-5 in the final, securing a record-extending 37th Players Championship crown.

Van Gerwen was in sensational form throughout the day, producing a staggering 122.34 average in the semi-finals as he demolished Martin Schindler 7-0.

Earlier, the world No.4 averaged 102.47 in a commanding 6-2 victory over Beau Greaves in the quarter-finals.

He also overcame compatriot and World Championship runner-up Gian van Veen 6-4 in the last 16.

Van Gerwen believes his recent displays prove he is rediscovering top form after a frustrating period.

He said: “At the beginning of the day I was struggling more with myself because I had the power in myself, but I played okay.

“I could have done a little bit more here and there and missed too many doubles. But the last three or four games I can’t complain.

“I played fantastic darts against Beau. Martin Schindler, I absolutely destroyed him. Then the final against Dirk, what a day.”

The three-time world champion was especially pleased with his incredible semi-final performance.

He added: “I’ve hit a big average before against Michael Smith in the Premier League but normally you need two good players to do that.

“Because the other player needs to win a leg and then you don’t get a shot on your doubles.

“So your average keeps getting high. But now I had to do it all myself, he only had two darts at a double.

“That gave me a really good feeling. For me, more importantly, after a very long time I won a ProTour today like this and it means a lot.”

Van Gerwen says confidence is beginning to return after posting several ton-plus averages in recent weeks.

“I have been playing well the last couple of weeks with a couple of ton-plus averages,” he continued.

“That is all part of the game. You have to keep your head going and believe in your own ability.

“I am playing good darts now so I don’t really care.”

The Dutchman also praised Van Duijvenbode after the pair battled through difficult periods to reach the final.

“I am proud of Dirk too because he is going through a tough time like me,” Van Gerwen said.

“For us to both be in the final is good for Dutch darts but we both really needed form for the rest of the year.”

Van Gerwen admitted ranking events remain his main focus despite the looming return of the Premier League Darts.

“The Premier League is waiting around the corner but for me ranking tournaments are the priority because of my ranking,” he explained.

“I don’t set myself any targets because I don’t think I am in the position.

“But everyone knows what I am capable of so don’t write me off.”