Michael van Gerwen gives excuse after being slammed by darts commentator

Michael van Gerwen has shed light on the reasons behind his recent slump in form after clinching victory at Players Championship 27, following a period that left darts enthusiasts reeling from his unexpected first-round departure at the World Grand Prix.

The darting community was left stunned last week when the Dutch maestro suffered a humiliating defeat without winning a single leg against Daryl Gurney. However, Van Gerwen has made a remarkable comeback in Wigan, securing his third PDC ranking title within a month by defeating Gerwyn Price with an 8-4 scoreline.

Post-match, he candidly discussed the challenges he's faced.

"I was away for three weeks with different problems (illnesses)," the 35-year-old revealed regarding his premature exit in Leicester. "It is frustrating but it is what it is. Sometimes health comes first, and I'm glad I won today."

He also noted the need for improved energy levels but expressed satisfaction with his performance, acknowledging the difficulty of ProTours, especially given his long-standing career spanning nearly two decades.

Sky Sports commentators Wayne Mardle and Stuart Pike were left astounded as Van Gerwen experienced a complete shutout during the Grand Prix at the hands of world No. 26 and past champion Gurney.

The six-time winner of the unique double-in, double-out event, who last secured the title in 2022, experienced a shocking downfall at the Mattioli Arena, losing in straight sets 3-0 to the Northern Irishman.

With 186 remaining and already trailing by a set and two legs, Michael van Gerwen's decision to hit a maximum and leave himself an awkward double three finish was met with astonishment as it seemingly reduced his chances of winning even a single leg in Leicester.

"What on earth? Honestly, though. Honestly! Leaving six, I don't get that," exclaimed commentator Wayne Mardle, clearly perplexed by Van Gerwen's choice during the match."

"Now he's come back for the double that he will not like," Mardle continued, as Van Gerwen narrowly missed the double three with his first two darts. "Now it's awkward. This is all about the 180 he hit."

After Van Gerwen's final dart went inside, allowing Daryl Gurney to clinch the match, Mardle did not mince words about MVG's tactics, stating: "I'm sorry. I don't care what you've won. You've got to question the board management on that 180."

Mardle's fellow commentator, Pike, also shared his candid views as MVG exited the stage, remarking: "Daryl Gurney has taken Van Gerwen to the cleaners in Leicester. The six-time champion has been dismissed, dispatched and destroyed on the big stage.

"One of the most embarrassing and humiliating defeats in Micheal van Gerwen's career. Certainly one of the most embarrassing he's ever suffered at the World Grand Prix."

Van Gerwen, fresh from his victories in Players Championship 21 and the Hungarian Darts Trophy last month, emerged victorious from a field of 128 competitors, defeating Dylan Slevin, Scott Williams, James Wade, Luke Woodhouse, Jonny Clayton and fellow Dutchman Wessel Nijman.

The action-packed Players Championship double-header is set to continue on Wednesday.