Michael van Gerwen has taken aim at one of his darts rivals ahead of a potential clash at the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship.
On Thursday night, three-time world champion Van Gerwen began his quest for the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship title against Japan's Mitsuhiko Tatsunami.
The 36-year-old Dutchman, who was beaten by Luke Littler in last year's final, had to survive an almighty scare as he was a set and two legs down against Tatsunami.
Eventually, Van Gerwen recorded a 3-1 win, securing his place in the second round.
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Speaking after the match, he admitted: "It was really difficult, I don't know what happened. My first dart was constantly underneath [the treble 20] or above.
"His finishing was great, I wasn't afraid of his scoring but when you score so badly and you don't do what you are capable of, then you are going to annoy yourself and you have to deal with your own problems."
Looking ahead, the Dutchman will take on either William O'Connor or Krzysztof Kciuk.
If Van Gerwen wins his second round match, he could face rival Peter Wright, who is taking on Arno Merk.
Speaking recently, two-time world champion Wright claimed that Van Gerwen's eyesight was 'probably going' but he 'won't admit it'.
'Snakebite' said: "Obviously Gary [Anderson] is on the glasses or contacts. I don't know if Michael's wearing contacts at the moment, but I think MVG's vision is probably going - but he won't admit it at the moment."
In response, Van Gerwen shut down Wright's comments, claiming the Scotsman has a 'big mouth'.
He said: "If you look to my new dates here and there, I don't think there's anything wrong with my eyes. There's nothing wrong with my eyes, don't worry. I keep getting compliments.
"I would love to play Peter Wright. I hope he has a big mouth as he's had in the last two weeks, because I keep smashing him in exhibitions.
"He made so many comments over the last so many years. To speak the name of Peter Wright is a waste of my breath."
Topics: Michael van Gerwen, Darts, World Darts Championship
Marcus Chan