Croatian darts player Pero Ljubic has come to the defence of Michael van Gerwen following the Dutch star's controversial remarks that sparked widespread media outrage after their Poland Darts Masters encounter last week.
Van Gerwen, the three-time World Championship winner, labelled Ljubic a "pub player" following their match, with the former world champion also stating that "[Ljubic] won a few legs and it feels like his birthday".
The inflammatory comments drew sharp criticism across the media landscape.
However, Ljubic has now spoken out to support his Dutch rival, revealing a different side to the story that contradicts the public perception of Van Gerwen's outburst.
Michael van Gerwen caused outrage at the Poland Darts Masters when he labelled his opponent 'a pub player'
PA
Speaking to Polish darts outlet Okiem Darta, Ljubic revealed that Van Gerwen apologised for his comments immediately after the match.
The Croatian player urged people not to rush to judgement about the incident.
"Michael apologised to me straight away. We know each other well, and I know he meant no harm," Ljubic said. "Don't be too quick to judge emotions can take over in moments like that."
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Croatian darts player Pero Ljubic has come to the defence of Michael van Gerwen following the Dutch star's controversial remarks that sparked widespread media outrage after their Poland Darts Masters encounter last week
The Croatian explained that Van Gerwen's outburst stemmed from frustration with his own performance rather than any personal animosity.
"He was just frustrated with his own performance," Ljubic said. "For me, what matters most is someone's honesty not what the internet says."
Van Gerwen, currently ranked third on the PDC Order of Merit, was heavily favoured to defeat Ljubic, who sits 140 places below him in the rankings.
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The expectation of an easy victory made the Dutchman's narrow 6-4 win all the more frustrating for him.
The match took place at the Poland Darts Masters last week, where Van Gerwen's below-par performance against the Croatian underdog led to his emotional post-match reaction.
His comments about Ljubic being a "pub player" came in the immediate aftermath of what should have been a routine victory for the three-time world champion.
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The shaky nature of Van Gerwen's win clearly contributed to his controversial outburst that subsequently dominated headlines.
Ljubic's gracious response extended to praising his opponent's character and abilities.
"During a later chat, he even gave me some motivation. He's a genuinely decent guy and a top-class player," the Croatian added.
Darts veteran Michael van Gerwen was unable to win the Poland Darts Masters
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Van Gerwen's tournament ended in the quarter-finals when he was defeated by England's Rob Cross.
The Poland Darts Masters title ultimately went to Welsh player Gerwyn Price, who secured the trophy with a narrow 8-7 victory over Stephen Bunting in a closely contested final.