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'My first England game was against a big fat Dutchman called Van Gerwen' – Ricky Evans opens up on nightmare MVG record

Originally posted on Dartsnews.com | Last updated Sep 4, 2025 9:31 AM ET

Ricky Evans has never been shy about poking fun at himself, but when it comes to Michael van Gerwen, the humour masks a remarkable statistic. The Dutchman has beaten him an astonishing 62 times, compared to just a single Evans win, making him arguably the unluckiest opponent “Rapid Ricky” could draw on tour.

“I have grown up playing against Van Gerwen,” Evans told Crutchley Darts. “In 2004 I was an England International at youth level and my first ever game for England was against a big fat Dutchman called Van Gerwen. He had hair, and he has beaten me ever since. I think he has beaten me 62 times and I have beaten him once so we will go with him.”

It is a record that would crush some players, but Evans has forged his own way in the game. While Van Gerwen became a three-time world champion and long-term world number one, the Englishman has made his mark as one of the PDC’s most recognisable entertainers, combining lightning-fast darts with a loyal following.

A career defined by moments

Evans’ career may not boast the silverware of his Dutch rival, but it is decorated with unforgettable moments that have cemented his place in fans’ affections. Chief among them is his comeback victory over Simon Whitlock at the 2015 World Championship.

“To beat Simon Whitlock at the World Championships when I was nowhere near – it was a great comeback,” Evans recalled. “It is very underrated as a comeback.”

That night at Alexandra Palace saw him overturn a two-set deficit before sealing it with a 130 checkout, sending the crowd into a frenzy and proving he could deliver under the spotlight.

More recently, Evans enjoyed his best-ever major run at the 2023 UK Open in Minehead, reaching the semi-finals. For a player often seen more as a crowd favourite than a contender, it marked a breakthrough. “Even Minehead getting to the semi-final – for someone like me that is a huge achievement,” Evans said.

Determined to achieve more

Despite those highlights, Evans is adamant his story is far from complete. “There have been so many good things. Obviously, getting a Tour Card because I am still playing and have never lost it… but I would like to be boring again and say my biggest achievement is coming.”

It is an outlook that reflects both his humility and quiet determination. At 35, an age where many darting careers peak, Evans believes there is still more to write.

Rapid Ricky: entertainer first, competitor always

Evans’ appeal has never been limited to results. His nickname “Rapid Ricky” stems from his famously quick pace on the oche, which guarantees him applause regardless of the scoreline. But he has always insisted he is more than just an entertainer.

His grounded approach even extends to his matchday routine. “If it is in the morning I don’t eat breakfast,” he revealed. “For a fat guy I don’t eat a lot. I like a Subway, something like a bacon baguette.”

Simple, unpretentious, and effective – much like his approach to the sport.

Looking ahead

With his Tour Card secure and his fanbase as strong as ever, Evans is not ready to be defined by his head-to-head record with Van Gerwen.

He may have been on the wrong end of 62 defeats, but for Evans, the real story is the belief that the best is still to come. Whether that moment arrives at Ally Pally, Minehead, or even the World Matchplay in Blackpool, “Rapid Ricky” is determined to prove there is more to his career than comic relief and quickfire darts.