Meet Michael van Gerwen: The Dutch Darts Phenomenon

Michael van Gerwen, born on April 25, 1989, is a prominent Dutch professional darts player, currently holding the second position in the world rankings. He enjoyed a remarkable stint as the world's No. 1 player from 2014 to 2021 and is celebrated as a three-time PDC World Champion, securing the prestigious title in 2014, 2017, and 2019. Van Gerwen has etched his name in the annals of darting history, earning recognition as one of the sport's greatest players.

Van Gerwen's journey into the world of darts commenced at the age of 13. His prodigious talent manifested early when he clinched the 2006 World Masters title and achieved a televised nine-dart finish at the 2007 Masters of Darts, setting a record as the youngest player to accomplish both feats at the age of 17, a record that has since been beat by darting prodigy, Luke Littler.

Known by several monikers that reflect his prowess and charisma on the darts stage, van Gerwen has become synonymous with the initials 'MVG,' an abbreviation that resonates with fans globally. The nickname "Mighty Mike" captures the formidable aura he exudes during his electrifying performances, showcasing both his skill and tenacity. Another popular epithet, "The Green Machine," also pays homage to his Dutch heritage but also signifies the unstoppable force he embodies in the world of darts.

Beyond nicknames, van Gerwen's walk-on is an iconic spectacle in itself, accompanied by the resonating beats of "Seven Nation Army" by The White Stripes. The thunderous rhythm of this anthemic track has become synonymous with the entrance of the darting maestro, setting the stage for the intense battles that follow and adding to the unique charm of his presence in the arena.

The Dutch sensation underwent a meteoric rise in the rankings, catapulting from world number 38 at the start of 2012 to number four by the beginning of 2013. His breakthrough continued with the capture of his first major PDC title at the World Grand Prix and a notable appearance in the final of the 2013 World Championship. In 2014, at a mere 24 years old, van Gerwen etched his name in history as the youngest winner of the PDC World Championship—a record he still holds. Moreover, he stands among a select group of players who have clinched the title more than once.

Renowned for his dominance on the dartboard, van Gerwen asserted his supremacy by clinching 18 tournaments in 2015 and an impressive 25 in 2016. His accolades position him as the second most successful player in PDC history, trailing only the legendary Phil Taylor. As of January 26, 2024, his tally of 159 singles titles worldwide further solidifies his status as a formidable force in the world of darts. Van Gerwen also boasts the highest three-dart average in a televised darts match, an outstanding 123.4.

As Michael van Gerwen embarks on his 12th Premier League Darts campaign, the seasoned Dutch maestro stands as a towering figure in the tournament's history, having clinched the prestigious title an impressive seven times - a record that attests to his unparalleled mastery on the dartboard. Van Gerwen's journey in the Premier League has been a captivating narrative of consistency and dominance, making him a perennial force to be reckoned with.

Born in Boxtel, the Netherlands, the 34-year-old’s journey into the world of sports initially unfolded on the football field. Displaying his athletic prowess, he engaged in football as a defender until the age of 12. However, it was at the age of 13 that van Gerwen's trajectory took a decisive turn, as he transitioned from the football pitch to the dartboard, embarking on a journey that would redefine his career.

Van Gerwen's early forays into competitive darts quickly showcased his exceptional talent. At the tender age of 14, he reached the final of the Primus Masters Youth event in 2003, foreshadowing the success that would follow. The year 2005 marked a significant period for the budding darts prodigy, as he secured multiple youth titles, triumphing in prestigious competitions such as the German Open, German Gold Cup, Norway Open, Northern Ireland Open, Swedish Open, and the Dutch National Youth Championship.

Intriguingly, before solidifying his status as a professional darts player, van Gerwen honed his skills in a different arena—he worked as a tiler. Mighty Mike's early years were marked by a diverse athletic background and a rapid ascent in the world of darts, laying the foundation for the remarkable career that would unfold in the years to come.

Michael van Gerwen has an estimated net worth of around £6million and is currently number two on the list of the top earners in the sport.

According to the PDC Order of Merit, which is the total prize money won by players over the last two years, van Gerwen is in second behind current World Champion Luke Humphries, with winnings of £1,132,250.

Michael van Gerwen relies on his personally designed Winmau Exact MVG darts, each weighing 21.5g, with a length of 53mm and a width of 6.25mm. Exemplifying unparalleled attention to detail and craftsmanship, his darts represent the pinnacle of unique and customised production in the darting world.

Additionally, the weight distribution is centred, ensuring a balanced and controlled throw for the player. The barrel profile is characterised by parallel lines, contributing to a streamlined and consistent flight through the air. With a round front profile, these darts offer a smooth and predictable trajectory, allowing for precision in every throw. The point type is a silver-effect high-tensile material, combining durability with a sleek aesthetic.

In terms of grip characteristics, the Winmau MVG Exact Darts feature round grooves that provide a balanced feel in the player's hand. The grip level is rated at 3 on a scale of 1 to 5, striking a harmonious balance for control and accuracy. The full-length grip zone ensures a consistent and comfortable hold, making these darts an ideal choice for players who value precision and reliability in their game.