Michael van Gerwen to face Gian van Veen after Dutch duo advance at World Matchplay

Michael van Gerwen booked his place in the World Matchplay second round with a hard-fought 10-7 win over Jermaine Wattimena on Sunday 19 July 2026 at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens.

What happened in Blackpool?

Wattimena pushed the Dutch ace early, but van Gerwen’s class told in the end. The world No.4 started slow, trailing 1-4 before a flurry of 140+ finishes turned the tide. Wattimena clawed back to 5-4, but van Gerwen’s finishing and control under pressure sealed three straight legs for an 8-4 lead. Breaks traded late, but van Gerwen took out tops to finish it off.

Gian van Veen also advanced with a 10-6 win over Krzysztof Ratajski. The world No.3 showed why he’s a threat on the big stage, hitting two 144 checkouts and a 160 break to set the Winter Gardens alight. Ratajski pushed hard, but van Veen’s defence and finishing held firm.

Why it matters for Michael van Gerwen

Van Gerwen’s route to the last 16 keeps him on track for a deep run in Blackpool. His first match proved tougher than expected, but his ability to grind out wins under pressure remains undimmed. The Dutchman now faces either Ryan Searle or debutant William O’Connor.

Van Veen’s confidence boost is notable too. After a shaky spell, his 10-6 win over Ratajski-just days after losing to him in Leverkusen-proves he can peak when it counts. His finishing and outer-ring precision were decisive.

What comes next?

Van Gerwen will next face the winner of Ryan Searle vs William O’Connor. Searle eased past O’Connor 10-6, dominating early before the Irishman fought back to 8-6. Searle’s clinical doubling and treble power proved too much.

The World Matchplay continues at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens until Saturday 26 July. Sky Sports has live coverage across all platforms.

Key quotes from the night

James Wade called his win over Wattimena “rubbish” despite the result. “I slowed myself down and walked around rather than speeding up,” Wade told Sky Sports. “In the end, the proof was in the pudding.”

Van Veen admitted his recent struggles but praised his finishing. “Everyone knows I have been struggling the last few months,” he said. “My finishing got me through that game today. I am finishing really well.”