Michael van Gerwen's reason for missing Players Championship after personal admission

Darts icon Michael van Gerwen will not feature at the Players Championship this year. The three-time world champion has elected to forgo the competition in order to focus on his family. Van Gerwen, 36, announced earlier this year that he and his wife were divorcing and so will attend to personal matters instead of turning out at Minehead. 

It is the first time Van Gerwen will miss the Players Championship Finals. Ever since the tournament’s inception back in 2009, the Dutchman had never failed to qualify. Van Gerwen has also enjoyed great success in the event over the years. He has won won the Players Championship Finals seven times, which is even four more than legend of darts, Phil Taylor. However, he has endured a tough run at the oche this year.

Speaking to Darts World, Van Gerwen said: "Everyone knows what has happened and right now, my focus is solely on my children. The news about myself and their mother affects them enormously and it's vital we both continue to provide love and attention no matter what.

"This is a decision that was already in place. I know my fans would like to see me in Minehead, but I assure them I will be back very soon."

He added: "This has been a tough year and I now need to recharge the batteries before the World Championships. I owe it to myself, my management, sponsors and also the fans to only perform when I'm fully focused and can give 100% to the game I love.

"My family are what matter most and they will always be the priority, regardless of anything else. Thank you for your continued words of support on social media. I do see them, and it means a lot."

Before his admission, Van Gerwen was struggling to qualify for the Finals. The Players Championship is a tournament for which players cannot qualify through the PDC Order of Merit, on which Van Gerwen currently sits third.