Michael van Gerwen makes return for first time since break after marriage split

Michael van Gerwen is back on the oche for the first time in around a month with the Dutch juggernaut delighting fans in Waregem on Saturday evening before a likely return as of right now next week at the US Darts Masters.

Van Gerwen lost to Nathan Aspinall in Sheffield with 'The Asp' saying at the time that he was surprised by his lack of fight in a win or bust scenario which saw the Dutchman miss out on the play-offs at The O2.

But after withdrawing from his home tournament, the Dutch Darts Championship in Rosmalen, it was later confirmed why with MVG splitting from his wife.

He said at the time that he would be taking a break from upcoming tournaments and he stuck to that not playing on the European Tour or the ProTour this week. He also withdrew from the Poland Darts Masters. Albeit he withdrew from the World Cup of Darts prior to the split news anyway.

"It is with great sadness, I would like to let you know that Daphne and I have decided to end our relationship. As a result, I have withdrawn from the upcoming tournaments. I am sorry to disappoint my fans, but I am confident that they understand my choice," wrote Van Gerwen in Dutch on X.

"We are going through a tough time and ask everyone to respect our privacy during this difficult time."

Price withdraws late as young star steps up

But he is back playing taking in the exhibition Jupiler Top of Darts in Waregem and it was some much needed star power in Belgium with Gerwyn Price withdrawing late citing illness. Lex Paeshuyse, the rising star was announced as his replacement in what was his first appearance in an exhibition as per the tournament organisers.

The tournament wrote a statement confirming they had contacted many players but could not get anyone in at short notice so put faith in their rising star.

"Last night, we received word from Gerwyn Price that he has recently fallen ill. As a result, he unfortunately had to cancel his participation in the tournament in Austria and will also be unable to attend tonight. We immediately began searching for a worthy replacement with international appeal. However, this proved to be no easy task: many top players we contacted were already committed to other tournaments or had media obligations.

"Nonetheless, we made a special decision. We already have a world champion in our midst, someone who has won several tournaments this year. That’s why we chose to place our trust in youth. We are proud to announce that none other than Lex Paeshuyse will replace Gerwyn Price. For Lex, this will be his very first appearance in a tournament of this level, where he will face the very best in the world. A young player to watch, and a talent we as Belgians can be especially proud of!"

When it comes to Van Gerwen, he seemingly given he has returned is ready to play in New York next week with no withdrawal yet confirmed. His run up to the World Matchplay seemingly begins.