Simon O'Connor/PDC

'It’s all dragging on a bit too long' - Michael van Gerwen honest about struggles ahead of Premier League Darts decider

Originally posted on Dartsnews.com | Last updated May 22, 2025 12:04 PM ET

Michael van Gerwen faces a monumental task if he’s to snatch a spot in the Premier League Darts play-offs. The Dutchman must win the final night in Sheffield — something he hasn’t managed to do at any point this season.

Three players have already secured their play-off places: Luke Littler, Luke Humphries, and Gerwyn Price. That leaves just one ticket up for grabs, with Van Gerwen and Nathan Aspinall the only contenders. For Aspinall, a quarter-final win over Van Gerwen would be enough. For ‘Mighty Mike’, only a perfect night — winning three matches and lifting the week’s title — will do.

“I know I need to go full throttle, but it’s going to be really, really tough,” Van Gerwen told De Telegraaf. “I’m well aware of that.”

Reflecting on his current form, Van Gerwen didn’t hide his frustrations: “This is just where things are right now. Do I still have belief? Of course. You always have belief. But at the same time, you’ve got to be realistic — face the facts. And sometimes, facing the truth gives you the strength to dig in and keep fighting.”

In recent weeks, Van Gerwen has appeared less animated on stage, something even he has noticed. “It’s all dragging on a bit too long at the moment,” he admitted. “In the Premier League, there’s no time to make quick adjustments. That makes it tough — everything becomes a battle. You know what you’re capable of, and that makes it all the more frustrating. But you can’t let it get to you.”

“There are times I throw brilliant legs, or have two great visits, and then suddenly it all falls apart,” he continued. “You think to yourself: what’s going on? And it’d be a lot easier if you actually knew the answer. But the margins are razor-thin — especially in these short format matches, best-of-11 legs. Things could suddenly click on Thursday night."

“I always enjoy the start of the Premier League. But I enjoy it even more when it’s over. And that’s on me,” concludes the mighty Dutchman.

Nathan Aspinall and Michael van Gerwen will battle it out for @BetMGMUK Premier League Play-Off qualification on the final night of league action in Sheffield on Thursday.

Night 16 preview!
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) May 21, 2025