Michael van Gerwen and more set to miss prestigious PDC majors: 'I don’t think he’s in the right place physically or mentally'

The darts season is about to hit full swing – but according to former Tour Card holder and pundit Matthew Edgar, that’s not a cause for celebration for everyone. While fans are eagerly anticipating the big tournaments to come, a number of established names could be in danger of missing out.

“This time of year means some players will drop down the rankings, and some big names could be missing from major events,” Edgar said on his YouTube channel, Edgar TV. “Missing those events means losing big ranking money, and losing big ranking money means big changes in the rankings. I feel like we’re about to go through another era of change: lots of good, hungry young players coming through, ready to dislodge some of the old guard. That could start as soon as the World Grand Prix.”

Edgar’s first warning was aimed at Dimitri Van den Bergh, currently ranked 21 in the world. “Get used to hearing his name here,” Edgar said. “A semi-finalist in the event last year, but as things stand, he’s not in the World Grand Prix. That could damage his prospects of staying inside the top 32.”

Michael Smith, world number 22, is in the same position. “He’s played in 12 of the last 13 World Grand Prixs, debuting back in 2012. His record there isn’t great – first-round exits in nine of those appearances – but I’m sure he’d happily go out in the first round again just to make sure he’s there. He recently missed the World Matchplay, like Dimitri, and could be adding this to his list of absences.”

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Two more names were on Edgar’s radar – both of whom played in the World Matchplay. “Raymond van Barneveld – currently world number 35, outside the top 32, and not in this event as things stand. He’s also missing a few others, which could see him drop further. We’ve heard him talk about possible retirement, and maybe he just doesn’t have it anymore. He’s sliding away, recently played in the seniors event, which I think is telling about where he sees his future. He didn’t win it – lost to Ross Montgomery in the Champion of Champions – and then underperformed afterwards. I think we’re seeing the decline of Van Barneveld as a top contender. I could be wrong, but this might be it.”

On Joe Cullen, Edgar said: “Currently number 30, but defending £40,000 from this event two years ago. If he doesn’t make the World Grand Prix, he’ll fall outside the top 32. He’s just two places away from the qualification spots right now. He’s played nine in a row at the Grand Prix, so his absence would be notable.”

The threat extends to other majors too. For the European Championship – where qualification comes solely via the Euro Tour – Edgar pointed to Rob Cross. “World number nine, European Champion in 2019 and 2021, eight appearances in a row, but right now he’s £4,500 short of qualifying. It wouldn’t hit his ranking hard, but it could affect sponsorships and earnings. I expect him to make it – he’ll be seeded on the European Tour – but as of now, he’s not in.”

Perhaps the most eye-catching name in Edgar’s analysis is Michael van Gerwen. “Yes, he recently reached the World Championship final, but we know about his throat problems, personal issues, and withdrawals from events. He’s currently 121st in the Players Championship Finals Order of Merit, with just £7,000 earned, £10,500 short of the cut – and that gap could grow if he misses more events. Even when he’s played, he’s had shock defeats, like losing to Mike Flynn. If you asked me right now, in August 2025, whether Van Gerwen makes Minehead, my answer is no. He’d need a deep run or consistent performances, and I don’t think he’s in the right place physically or mentally. If he does scrape in, the top seeds won’t like it – 1 v 64, 2 v 63 – which could mean a huge first-round clash. But I think he misses out.”