Few figures loom as large over Dutch darts as Raymond van Barneveld, so watching him struggle has been uncomfortable for fans who remember his glory days.
Yet just when the calls for retirement started growing louder, help arrived from an unexpected but very familiar place: former Netherlands football star Rafael van der Vaart.
A Friendship Turned Support System
Van der Vaart, best known for his time at Tottenham and for reaching the 2010 World Cup final with the Dutch national team, has quietly offered to help Barneveld rediscover his spark.
The plan isn’t about formal coaching or strict routines — it’s more about mindset, confidence, and rediscovering the joy that once made Barney unbeatable.
The former footballer, who later became a professional darts player himself, believes the five-time world champion still has what it takes to trouble anyone on the circuit.
“It’s All in His Head”
Speaking openly, Van der Vaart admitted it hurts to watch Barneveld struggle.
As a lifelong fan, he sees echoes of his own career in Barney’s journey — raw talent mixed with periods of complacency.
According to Van der Vaart, the issue isn’t skill but mentality.
He’s convinced that when Barneveld relaxes and stops overthinking, he becomes dangerous again.
Jokingly, he even suggested that Barney might benefit from embracing the laid-back approach that once worked for him, instead of tying himself in knots before matches.
Chaos, Confidence, and a Little Laughter
Van der Vaart’s style couldn’t be more different from the intense analysis that often dominates elite sport.
He openly admits he’s not much of a thinker — a fact he cheerfully says his girlfriend, handball star Estavana Polman, would confirm.
He even joked that if he and Barneveld showed up together at a tournament, it might throw everyone else off balance. Sometimes, a little chaos can be a weapon.
Barneveld’s Emotional Reaction
For Barneveld, the offer came as a complete surprise — and an emotional one.
He described the gesture as heartwarming and said he was genuinely speechless when Van der Vaart reached out.
The two had previously played a demonstration match together and stayed in touch, but this felt different.
Darts, Barneveld explained, can be lonely, and having someone in his corner — especially someone who understands elite pressure — could make a real difference.
Keeping It Casual, for Now
Nothing is set in stone yet. Coffee is on the agenda, and that’s where plans will start to take shape.
Van der Vaart has already expressed interest in attending tournaments with him from time to time, purely as a supporter.
Barneveld made it clear this isn’t about turning darts into a team sport — but any mental relief or fresh perspective is welcome at this stage of his career.
No Illusions About Being a Coach
Van der Vaart was quick to downplay any idea that he’s a tactical genius or motivational guru.
He laughed about recently playing darts with his son and producing a very modest average, reminding everyone that discipline and gym routines were never his strengths.
Still, he believes he can help in other ways, particularly by using his contacts to support Barneveld commercially and connect him with sponsors.
A Career Marked by Comebacks
Barneveld’s relationship with retirement has been complicated.
He’s stepped away from the sport more than once, only to return days, months, or years later.
A heavy defeat to Michael van Gerwen in 2019 triggered one abrupt retirement announcement, which was reversed almost immediately.
Later that same year, a shock World Championship loss led to another emotional exit — one he eventually walked back as well, earning his tour card again in 2021.
Slowing Down, Not Stopping
Last year, Barneveld admitted the grind was becoming overwhelming.
While he still loves darts, early exits and the physical toll of the tour have forced him to be honest with himself — especially at 58.
Despite that, he remains committed.
Now ranked world No 36, he plans to continue on the PDC circuit, starting with the Players Championship events in Hildesheim in February.
What Comes Next?
While he’ll skip the Winmau World Masters due to exhibition commitments in Twente, the focus is firmly on staying competitive — and rediscovering belief.
With Rafael van der Vaart offering support, perspective, and a bit of humor, Raymond van Barneveld isn’t ready to fade quietly.
Whether this partnership sparks a resurgence or simply brings peace of mind, one thing is clear: Barney isn’t done yet.
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