Michael van Gerwen has described World Darts Championship semi-final opponent Chris Dobey’s comments as “nonsense”.
Dobey said it would be “a little easier” to play Van Gerwen in the last four over Callan Rydz, who is from the same north-east town as him at Bedlington.
Van Gerwen beat Callam Rydz in a high-quality match to set up a clash with Dobey, and was asked about comments the British fighter made before Van Gerwen’s win.
“People say a lot of nonsense when they win,” Van Gerwen said.
He added: “Dobey is a very interesting player to play against because he can produce really good things.
“So he has to keep his fire and everything going at all times because he is a good player.
“So I’m not going to underestimate him because I fought him. I know what he can do and as far as you know, yeah, everything’s good.”
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Michael van Gerwen insists he will not underestimate semi-final opponent Chris Dobey, saying ‘the king will return’ if he continues to believe.
Dobby will play in the semi-finals at Alexandra Palace for the first time in his career after losing in the quarter-finals in 2024 and 2023.
He lost a 4-0 lead to Rob Cross 12 months ago, but staged a small comeback of his own this year after losing the first two sets to Gerwyn Price, coming back to win 5-3.
“I believe I can keep winning, I just have to keep playing the way I can and get the doubles,” Dobey said.
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Chris Dobey missed five match darts but hit a double and a double to book his place in the World Championship semi-finals.
Van Gerwen: I believe the ‘King’ will return
Van Gerwen plays in his ninth World Championship semi-final on Thursday, seeking his fourth world title, which he has not won since 2019.
The 35-year-old failed to win a televised tournament in 2024, marking the first time he has not won a title in a calendar year since 2011.
When asked if he could become the ‘King of the Palace’ again, he replied, “I think that would be great. People would know the answer, but no. It would be difficult.”
“It’s a tough battle, but I love fighting battles, and if I keep believing in my abilities, the king will return.”
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Michael van Gerwen reveals his favorite Christmas movies and what he likes to eat over the festive period as he answers some quick-fire Christmas style questions.
Van Gerwen entered the tournament under a bit of a spotlight, with all the attention being given to Luke Humphries and Luke Littler.
If Littler beats Nathan Aspinall, he will face Stephen Bunting in the other semi-final, so the 17-year-old could face Van Gerwen in Friday’s final.
Van Gerwen entered the tournament under a bit of a spotlight, with all the attention being given to Luke Humphries and Luke Littler.
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