Michael van Gerwen Returns to Action After Marriage Split
Michael van Gerwen has made his return to darts for the first time in around a month, competing in the Jupiler Top of Darts in Waregem on Saturday evening.
He lost to Nathan Aspinall in Sheffield prior to his break, with Aspinall expressing surprise at Van Gerwen's lack of fight.
The Dutchman had withdrawn from his home tournament, the Dutch Darts Championship in Rosmalen, and later confirmed he was taking a break due to his marriage split.
Van Gerwen is likely to return to action at the US Darts Masters next week, with no withdrawal yet confirmed.
He had withdrawn from the Poland Darts Masters and the World Cup of Darts prior to the split news.
Michael van Gerwen wrote on X, "It is with great sadness, I would like to let you know that Daphne and I have decided to end our relationship. As a result, I have withdrawn from the upcoming tournaments."
The Jupiler Top of Darts in Waregem saw Van Gerwen's return, with Lex Paeshuyse replacing Gerwyn Price due to illness.
The tournament organizers stated, "We immediately began searching for a worthy replacement with international appeal. However, this proved to be no easy task: many top players we contacted were already committed to other tournaments or had media obligations."
Van Gerwen's run-up to the World Matchplay seemingly begins with his return to action.
On June 21, 2025, Modus Sports tweeted, "MVG RETURNS IN BELGIUM!"
Michael van Gerwen is back playing, taking part in the exhibition tournament in Waregem.
The Dutch juggernaut delighted fans with his return, bringing much-needed star power to the event in Belgium.
Gerwyn Price's late withdrawal due to illness led to Lex Paeshuyse's first appearance in an exhibition tournament.
The tournament organizers chose to place their trust in the rising star, announcing his participation as a replacement for Price.
Van Gerwen's return to action marks the beginning of his preparation for the upcoming US Darts Masters.
The Dutchman will look to regain his form and make a strong run in the tournament, following his month-long break.
With his return, Michael van Gerwen is ready to face the challenges ahead, starting with the US Darts Masters next week.