Darts legend Michael van Gerwen announces split from wife with emotional post
Darts legend Michael van Gerwen has revealed he's parting ways with his wife via a heartfelt post on social media. The pair tied the knot in 2014.
Taking to Twitter, Van Gerwen 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 As a result, I have withdrawn from the upcoming tournaments. I am sorry to disappoint my fans, but I trust that they will understand my decision. We are facing a difficult time and ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time."
Van Gerwen asked fans and followers for understanding and privacy as he navigates this challenging personal period. Van Gerwen and Daphne began their love story back in 2008 and said 'I do' in Holland in 2014, the same memorable year he claimed his inaugural world title.
They're proud parents to two children, welcoming their first daughter in August 2017, followed by a son in April 2020. Notably, Daphne, who once styled hair for a living, is an avid darts supporter having accompanied Van Gerwen globally.
The announcement of the split surfaces amidst a tumultuous period in Van Gerwen's professional darts journey. He recently missed out on qualifying for the Premier League Darts playoffs, marking only the second such occurrence in his storied career, reports the Mirror.
Moreover, competitor Nathan Aspinall expressed concern about Van Gerwen's demeanor at the oche after competing against him. On Thursday, Aspinall divulged: "There was a lot of emotion after walking off stage. I had to take myself away."
He further added his observations, stating, "I spoke so highly of Michael all week and go and win tonight. I don't know what is going on but he didn't look himself again. Even on that stage, he was giving up."
Darts legend Wayne Mardle has shared his thoughts, stating: "I feel for Michael, The man is a champion, a winner. It is only the second time he has not made the play-offs. He has said it, he has not been good enough at times."
"I don't know how he feels within, he has just looked off. To not have won a week, he won four last year, that is a real blow for him.
"He came into this as the third favourite behind the Lukes and it was all going okay. Then it kind of took a turn for the worst. I don't know how bad the injury was but since missing Berlin he has played slightly well in my opinion."
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