Michael van Gerwen 'struggling' with health issue as close friend says 'what choice does he have?'

Michael van Gerwen is struggling with a health issue which he has been unable to shake off, according to a close friend.

The Dutchman is a three-time PDC world champion and reached the final of the World Darts Championship earlier this year, losing 7-3 to Luke Littler at Alexandra Palace.

He has been playing at the Premier League darts but has not got a nightly victory under his belt and was also eliminated from the Players Championship in shock fashion at the first round.

The world number one for seven years between 2014 and 2021, Van Gerwen has not been his usual self on the oche and has found it difficult to find his form.

However, there is a valid explanation for Van Gerwen not being at the races as his close pal and fellow darts player Vincent van der Voort has revealed he has been suffering from a virus which is taking its toll.

According to Van der Voort, 'Mighty Mike' picked up the infection while on holiday in Thailand and despite regular visits to see the doctor, is still not quite himself.

"He’s been struggling with a virus or infection for quite some time now," he said on the Darts Draait Door podcast.

"He picked it up during his holiday in Thailand back in early January, and he just hasn’t been able to shake it off. On top of that, he’s not in his best form."

With the 35-year-old fighting with illness, podcast host Damian Vlottes asked Van der Voort whether it would be worth Van Gerwen taking a break from darts to focus on his health but the idea was swiftly dismissed.

He replied: "When is he supposed to do that? He’s not in a position to just skip tournaments."

Van der Voort also revealed the advice he has received from the doctor, adding: "The doctor told him it’s really unwise to spend so much time on planes, as that’s where bacteria spread easily. But what choice does he have?"

Michael van Gerwen has been struck by illness, according to a friend. Image: Getty

Van Gerwen is still scheduled to be present at night seven of the Premier League darts, which takes place in Cardiff on Thursday. He is fourth in the overall rankings with six points.