Michael van Gerwen hailed as the greatest darts player ever after retaining the World Matchplay title

MICHAEL VAN GERWEN was hailed as the greatest darts player ever after retaining the World Matchplay title.

The Dutchman, 27, last night bullied Phil Taylor in Blackpool to win 18-10 and trouser £100,000.

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Van Gerwen said: “This feels amazing. I dominated the final. You need to step up against Phil and I did that. I’m playing really well right now. My finishing was fantastic.”

The Power, 55, said: “None of us are performing against Michael. We’re not giving him enough quality practice.

“Darts has changed. I played with every great there has ever been — and he is the greatest I have played against. This fellow is dominating the game like I once did.”

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Van Gerwen had a 103.69 average, hit 12 180s and had 61 per cent success with his doubles.

And Taylor added: “I’m gutted. I faded towards the end. I’m shattered. He killed me.”