Surprise at timing of Dimitri van den Bergh comeback: 'That kind of situation can go either way'

In a surprising turn of events, Dimitri Van den Bergh is making his return to the international darts scene. After taking a self-imposed break from competition for several months, the Belgian has unexpectedly appeared on the entry list for the upcoming World Cup of Darts — a decision that has sparked mixed reactions from former pro Vincent van der Voort and presenter Damian Vlottes on their podcast Darts Draait Door.

Van den Bergh’s choice to stage his comeback at a pairs tournament has raised eyebrows. “He’s chosen that as his first tournament back. Striking, yes,” Van der Voort remarked. “If you haven’t played for two months, no match rhythm, no sharpness... Then going into a pairs event like this, it’s quite risky.”

The Belgian will team up with compatriot Mike De Decker to form the national duo. The pair are not only good friends off the oche but will now be fully reliant on each other in matchplay — a dynamic that brings its own uncertainties. “He probably has no idea where his game is at right now,” added Vlottes. “That kind of situation can go either way.”

Despite the concerns, the tone around Van den Bergh’s return is largely optimistic. The former World Matchplay finalist, affectionately nicknamed “The Dreammaker,” stepped away from the sport to recharge both mentally and physically. “If he feels ready again, then he absolutely should come back,” said Van der Voort. “That’s his right,” Vlottes echoed.

Belgium begins its World Cup campaign in the group stage. Representing England will be Luke Littler and Luke Humphries, known as a bit of a dream team.