Michael van Gerwen PULLS OUT of tournament at last minute after shock first round exit as pal gives worrying update
It comes following his first round exit in the previous stage of the Players Championship, with his pal claiming the "belief isn't there".
Van Gerwen, 36, was beaten 6-5 by outside Dominik Gruellich.
It is the sixth first-round loss of this year's PDC ProTour for the Green Machine, who has lacked his usual form.
His compatriot Vincent van der Voort is a little concerned, as Van Gerwen is failing to show the attributes that made him one of the world's best.
Van der Voort said on the Darts Draait Door podcast: "When I see how things are going, the belief just isn't there.
"His presence is lacking, there's no aggression or passion in his game.
"It's just about throwing at the board and hoping for the best."
Van Gerwen's form means he is also at risk of missing out on qualifying for the finals night of Premier League Darts.
He currently occupies the final spot in the top four, but is just one point ahead of Nathan Aspinall.
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