Darts Star Michael van Gerwen Brutally Slams Rival as ‘Choker’ Who ‘Often Fails’

Michael van Gerwen called his latest opponent "a choker" who "often fails" in a brutally honest post-match assessment.

Van Gerwen found himself 4-2 down to compatriot Wessel Nijman and facing an embarrassing first round exit European Championship.

The three-time world champion went on to win 6-5, surviving seven match darts in a frantic finale.

But when speaking to media after the fixture, proceeded to explain that he always had hope he would get the opportunity to comeback as he claimed that Nijman, who hasn't yet reached a televised quarter-final, struggles to get over the line in clutch moments.

Speaking after his win, Van Gerwen said: "Not relieved, no. I just made it very difficult for myself. I missed three darts to win 6–4, then made it exciting again. Luckily, I managed to take it in the last leg.

“I knew this could happen. When it really matters, Wessel often fails. He’s a bit of a choker, so I just kept faith.

“The last leg from me was bad, but I kept believing. When you still get the chance and he’s fumbling, you have to take it.

“The first ten legs were played at a really high level — everything was under 15 darts. Not many players can do that. It’s just a shame it got so messy after that.”

Van Gerwen was brutally honest in his assessment. Image: Getty

Van Gerwen did say the 25-year-old has "been doing fantastic lately" and that he "has a lot of respect" but stated Nijman '"still struggles on the big stage".

'Mighty Mike' will take on Chris Dobey in the quarter finals on Friday night in his next encounter in his quest to win £120,000 - but amid personal issues, he recently withdrew from a Players Championship event and will not be present at the finals in Minehead next month for the first time in his career.

Van Gerwen makes feelings clear on Saudi event

He is still set to compete at the World Darts Championship in December as he vies to win the competition for a fourth time.

And Van Gerwen has confirmed he has no issues with participating in the newly added Saudi Arabia Darts Masters, as part of a collaboration between 'Riyadh Season' and Matchroom Sport.

With no alcohol expected at the Saudi showpiece, there have been concerns about what the atmosphere might be like at the Global Theater on January 19 and 20.

But like No.1 ranked player Luke Humphries, Van Gerwen admits he will go wherever he is told to as long as the money is right.

“I don’t know. If they want to bring in the money like they do with other sports, keep it going,” he said.

“Wherever the tournament is America, Saudi Arabia, Japan — I don’t care. If the PDC tells me there’s a tournament there and we have the right to play, no problem. I’ll be on the flight. Simple as that.”