In a heartfelt update that caught many fans by surprise, darts superstar Michael van Gerwen has revealed that he and his wife Daphne are going through a tough phase and have decided to part ways.
Alongside this personal news, Van Gerwen also announced he will be taking a break from competing in upcoming tournaments.
A Difficult Decision Shared Publicly
Van Gerwen opened up on social media, sharing the news with his supporters.
He expressed his sadness about the situation and explained how this decision has affected his professional plans.
He wrote that he has withdrawn from all upcoming events to focus on what lies ahead personally.
He also asked fans to respect their privacy during what he described as a “difficult time,” showing his hope that followers would understand why he had to step back from the sport for now.
A Relationship That Spanned Over a Decade
Michael and Daphne’s relationship started back in 2008, and six years later, in 2014, they tied the knot.
Together, they have built a family with two young children — their daughter Zoe, who is seven, and their son Mike, aged five.
The couple’s long history makes the announcement especially poignant, highlighting the personal struggles Van Gerwen is navigating beyond the darts stage.
Career Impact and Tournament Withdrawal
The timing of the announcement coincides with Van Gerwen’s withdrawal from the Dutch Darts Championship, a significant event that was set to take place on home soil.
He was scheduled to play his first match on Saturday evening but chose to step away to focus on his family matters.
This break follows a challenging period for the 36-year-old, who recently missed out on qualifying for the Premier League Darts play-offs — a competition where he is a seven-time winner.
Finishing fifth in the league standings, just outside the top four, marked a notable moment in his career.
Looking Ahead for Van Gerwen and Fans
While this news is understandably tough for both Van Gerwen and his fans, it also signals a period of reflection and healing for the darts legend.
As he takes time away from the spotlight, supporters will surely hope to see him back refreshed and ready when the time is right.