Michael van Gerwen will make his competitive return at the US Masters in New York this weekend, marking his first tournament appearance since his loss to Nathan Aspinall in the Premier League on May 22.
The 36-year-old Dutchman stepped away from the sport after announcing his separation from wife Daphne, with whom he shares two children.
Van Gerwen withdrew from the Dutch Darts Championship in May.
In a statement at the time, he said: "It is with great sadness that I inform you that Daphne and I have decided to end our relationship. As a result, I have withdrawn from the upcoming tournaments."
Michael van Gerwen has not played a match since his 6-2 defeat to Nathan Aspinall last month
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The three-time world champion has developed a new grip during his time away and has already recorded two nine-darters in practice sessions.
Van Gerwen told Online Darts he feels prepared to unveil a "new Michael" at the World Series of Darts event:
"I don't know if it's going to be busy, but I'm going to live by the moment because we all know where I'm coming from, what position I'm in, and I need to make sure I do the right thing for me and my kids," he said.
Despite his time away from competition, Van Gerwen remains committed to his career whilst prioritising his family responsibilities.
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Michael van Gerwen has been speaking to the media ahead of his return to the oche
"I love playing darts, but one thing I love more and that's my kids," he added.
"I want to live a bit healthier as well and I still want to do this in 10 years, so I think you need to make a sacrifice in life, it's as simple as that."
The Dutchman, who married Daphne in 2014 after six years of dating, added: "I will see how things go, but I'm living by the moment."
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Van Gerwen has enjoyed considerable success at the US Masters, winning the tournament in 2017 and 2023.
"I have had more success in this tournament than anyone else ever. I need to make sure I'm going to maintain that by giving 100 per cent," he continued.
Despite his confidence, the Dutchman acknowledged the challenges he faces after his extended break from competition.
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The Dutchman won the US Darts Masters in 2023
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"I'm also realistic. I know I've had some tough periods. But if I thought I couldn't do any damage in this tournament, I wouldn't be here."
Van Gerwen has experienced a difficult year away from the oche, including health issues picked up during a holiday in Thailand in January before splitting from his wife last month.
It has been struggle on the stage, too, with MVG failing to make the Premier League playoffs for the second time in 13 years.
The 36-year-old also lost to Luke Littler in the World Championships final, with his only triumph this year coming in the German Darts Grand Prix.
Fans will be hoping the "new Michael" can return to his best and challenge both Luke Humphries and Littler at the top of the sport again.
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