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Dutch darts star Vincent van der Voort has expressed concern for his compatriot and friend Michael van Gerwen after a difficult period for the former world champion both inside and outside the sport. Van Gerwen began 2025 with a run to the final of the PDC World Championships, but results have been up and down since.

Away from the oche, Van Gerwen has separated from wife Daphne after 11 years together and his father Henri is battling cancer. He has put darts to one side at times, making it clear he wants spending time with his children to be a major priority.

“It suits his year – it’s been a year of nothing," Van der Voort told Darts Draait Door (via The Sun) after Van Gerwen effectively ruled himself out of featuring at the Players Championship Finals in Minehead. “Especially on the Pro Tour. He played a lot, but didn’t perform."

He added: "I understand what’s happening at home for him. I’ve spoken to him – you can tell he puts on a brave face in public, but behind that there’s emptiness. It’s all hitting him."

Van der Voort recognised the optics of Van Gerwen being seen in public in a non-darts capacity, for example skipping the World Cup of Darts for a trip to Ibiza. However, he has pointed to the upheaval in his friend's life and speculated about the impact that might be having.

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“I believe he’s genuinely struggling, but it comes across oddly. You can go to festivals and everything, but then not play darts for two days? Maybe it’s mental," he said. “If that’s the case, he needs to step away completely. Once you show up at a tournament, you’re judged on performance.

“He’s really struggling with himself now. For example, the dogs are gone—it’s quiet and empty at home. I understand that he wants to go out for dinner, to get away. That might make more sense than sitting on the couch on a Saturday night thinking too much. I understand it, but I’m worried about his career.”

After withdrawing from a number of qualifying events for Minehead, Van Gerwen spoke to Darts World about his priorities. He will return in time for the World Championships in December, where he will look to add to three title wins and several runner-up finishes.

"“Everyone knows what has happened and right now, my focus is solely on my children. Obviously, 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," he said.

“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. This has been a tough year and I now need to recharge the batteries ahead of 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. At this moment, 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. At the end of the day, just because we as professional dart players are in the spotlight, we are first and foremost loving parents.”