Darts star raises unusual concern at World Cup that left him feeling 'uncomfortable'

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Ben McCaffrey

By Ben McCaffrey


Published: 13/06/2025

- 22:24

Dutch star Gian van Veen has been left frustrated by the shirts that have been provided

Dutch darts player Gian van Veen has raised an unusual objection during this year's World Cup of Darts.

Van Veen, 23, has lodged a formal complaint to the PDC about the poor quality of shirts provided at the tournament, held in Germany.


The world number 23 revealed he received what feels like a medium-sized shirt despite specifically requesting an extra-large.

"I asked for an XL, but this feels more like a medium. An XXL would've been better," Van Veen said.

Gian van Veen

Dutch star Gian van Veen has lodged a formal complaint as the shirts provided are too tight

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"It's tight, uncomfortable, and feels totally different from my usual shirt."

The ill-fitting tournament shirts, manufactured by professional sports apparel supplier Fourex, have left the 23-year-old struggling with comfort during matches.

Van Veen's frustration is shared by numerous other competitors at the tournament.

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Gian van Veen

Gian van Veen confirmed that other players have had similar issues with the shirts

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"A lot of players are saying the same thing," Van Veen confirmed.

The tournament shirts feature bespoke designs for each country, yet the sizing issues have overshadowed this.

Players have found the tops uncomfortably tight, potentially impacting their performance during crucial matches.

This collective discontent has prompted formal discussions with tournament organisers about the substandard apparel quality.

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Van Veen confirmed has formally complained to the tournament organisers: "I've spoken to the PDC about it and they've promised to look into it for next year.

"But for now, we'll just have to get on with it," Van Veen added.

Van Veen replaced three-time World Cup champion Michael van Gerwen for the Netherlands this year, as the 36-year-old opted to take a holiday with his family instead.

The 23-year-old is paired with MVG's former partner, world No16 Danny Noppert.

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Danny Noppert

Gian van Veen is partnered by world no 16 Danny Noppert

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Despite the shirt controversy, Van Veen and Noppert secured a commanding 4-0 victory over Italy in their opening match.

The Netherlands duo face Hungary next and are expected to progress to the knockout stages.

"I honestly expected more from Italy. It was much easier than I thought it would be," Van Veen said.

Meanwhile, England's Luke Littler and Luke Humphries received a bye into the knockout rounds as the tournament's top-ranked team.

The world champion Humphries, who won last year's title alongside Michael Smith, remains the strong favourite to secure England's potential sixth World Cup crown.