Michael van Gerwen has spoken out after footage emerged of him caught up in a heated confrontation during a night out.
The three-time world darts champion was filmed at the centre of a tense altercation on Saturday evening, with bystanders stepping in to prevent the row from escalating. The video quickly spread across social media, sparking speculation about what had happened.
Van Gerwen, 36, has since moved to clarify the situation. Speaking to Darts News, he explained that the clash was the result of a verbal exchange that spilled over, rather than any wrongdoing on his part.
“After an enjoyable night out, we wanted to grab something to eat, and unfortunately I ended up in a situation you’d rather avoid,” he said.
Michael Van Gerwen had to be held back during the altercation
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"The man came at me from the kitchen, not the other way round, following a verbal exchange. People are making it sound more dramatic than it actually was, which is a shame.”
The Dutchman went on to stress that the disagreement was quickly calmed down. “As you can see, people stepped in straight away and the situation was resolved. I even spoke with the man’s nephew afterwards, and we cleared the air before we left,” he added.
The incident comes at a turbulent time in Van Gerwen’s personal life, with the former world number one confirming earlier this year that he had separated from his wife Daphne.
Despite the off-stage difficulties, he has shown signs of a return to form on the oche.
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It is not known what caused the altercation
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Earlier this month, Van Gerwen impressed by defeating teenage sensation Luke Littler 11–7 in the World Series of Darts final, marking a much-needed boost to his season.
Even so, he opted against playing at the Swiss Darts Trophy this past weekend, instead taking time away from competitive action.
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His focus is now on returning in Leicester next week, where three Players Championship floor events will offer crucial opportunities to secure ranking points.
Currently sitting 103rd in the Players Championship Order of Merit, Van Gerwen faces a battle to qualify for the Players Championship Finals in Minehead later this year.
Michael Van Gerwen revealed that he cleared the air with the man shortly after the altercation
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Only the top 64 on the Pro Tour standings will book a place at the major event, meaning he will need a strong run in the final stages of the season.
For now, Van Gerwen appears determined not to let distractions away from the board define him. His message after the scuffle was clear — the matter is settled, and his attention is back on darts.