In a spectacular darts thriller, Michael van Gerwen prevails against his constant rival Gerwyn Price and wins the World Matchplay for the third time. While the Welshman congratulates fairly, van Gerwen is already announcing the next big thing.
The proud champion Michael van Gerwen hearted the Phil Taylor Trophy, then made big announcements alongside final loser Gerwyn Price. “We’ll clean up the field together, don’t worry,” announced van Gerwen after the 18:14 in the final of the World Matchplay late Sunday evening in Blackpool. Van Gerwen can look back on a spectacular summer treble: first in June Premier League winner, then directly an operation on the throwing hand and now triumphant at the second most important event of the year.
“To have my hands on that trophy means everything to me. To beat a player of that caliber makes me proud. It was drama, there was phenomenal darts: that’s why we love this game. I’m proud of myself for being able to I kept my nerves, I’m so happy,” said the 33-year-old Dutchman, who crowned himself in the Winter Gardens for the third time after 2015 and 2016. Van Gerwen is now back in third place in the world rankings.
The Welshman Price takes over – final defeat or not – the top spot from the Scottish world champion Peter Wright. But on Sunday, frustration prevailed. “Michael is a fantastic player. He’s absolutely the champion he deserves, a great winner and a good friend. I played very well in this tournament, but today wasn’t to be for me,” said Price. The former rugby professional had led in the final for a long time until van Gerwen passed for the first time at 15:14 – and a short time later the winner was already certain.
For van Gerwen things are going well again in 2022 after two difficult years. “This time I won, next time he’ll do it. That’s how it works. It’s unbelievable to beat a player of this caliber,” explained van Gerwen on the big stage after euphorically raising the trophy in the air several times. Price, on the other hand, was denied the third highlight after winning number one and nine darters in the semifinals.
