Michael van Gerwen close to tears at World Darts Championship after explosive set which sent Ally Pally wild
MICHAEL van Gerwen was close to tears after smashing in the most explosive set of the World Championship so far.
The three-time champ and favourite sent out a statement to his rivals with a 3-0 win over Lewy Williams, dropping just one leg at Ally Pally last night.
He produced the most devastating three legs with an average of 125.25, winning in just 36 darts.
MVG was emotional on stage after getting a big welcome from the fans a year after being ruled out with Covid.
He said: “It’s not perfection but I think I played quite well, especially my treble 19s helped me through this game. I had to work hard for it. To be back here gives me a lot of pleasure.
“Last year was hard, that’s part of the game unfortunately, everyone else had to deal with that situation at that moment.
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“Then to come back and have this sort of welcome, it means a lot to me.
“I’m trying to do good and play darts at the highest level I can do.
"Alexandra has a special place in my heart. I’ve played so many nice games over here but to come back and have a great welcome, means a lot to me.
“I don’t have to defend myself, I know what I’m capable of. As long as the crowd keeps cheering for me in good and bad times, that’s the most important thing.
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“You need to have games like this. The first game of the World Championship, you want to win, you don’t want to lose. I’m under pressure, I know that.
“To do what I did tonight gives me a lot of joy. It gives a lot of confidence. From here I can build on towards the next one. I feel good, I feel comfortable.”