Michael van Gerwen has not held back in his criticism of Peter Wright ahead of their World Darts Championship clash, taking issue with the veteran’s remarks about the tournament.
The Dutchman, clearly frustrated, dismissed Wright’s statements as “nonsense” in a recent press conference.
Van Gerwen’s Reaction After Quarter-Final Victory
Van Gerwen secured his spot in the quarter-finals at Alexandra Palace after a 4-2 victory over Sweden’s Jeffrey de Graaf.
He will now face England’s Callan Rydz, who has been impressing throughout the competition.
But before focusing on his next match, Van Gerwen was asked about Wright’s bold claim that Rydz should be considered the favorite to win the World Championship.
“I just heard another guy saying that, yeah,” Van Gerwen remarked, clearly irritated.
“Every year at the worlds he talks so much nonsense.
He is always allowed to talk c**p.
No one takes him seriously on the tour because he’s not allowed an opinion at home as well.”
Wright’s Praise for Rydz Sparks the Controversy
Wright’s comments about Rydz have raised eyebrows.
The veteran darts player has praised Rydz’s relaxed, confident approach to the tournament, saying, “He should be favourite for this tournament. He’s playing superb darts and long may it carry on.”
Rydz, being the only unseeded player remaining, has certainly earned attention, but it’s his rising form that has been the talk of the tournament.
Van Gerwen, however, isn’t buying into Wright’s endorsement.
Instead, he sees it as just another example of Wright’s tendency to speak without thinking.
Van Gerwen’s Path to the Title
As the highest-ranked player still in the competition, Van Gerwen is aiming for his fourth World Championship title.
He has been dominant throughout the tournament, and with defending champion Luke Humphries and second seed Michael Smith both out of the running, Van Gerwen’s focus is squarely on his upcoming challenge against Rydz.
Respect for Wright’s Performance Against Humphries
Despite the criticism, Van Gerwen was quick to acknowledge Wright’s impressive performance against Luke Humphries, who had been struggling for form.
“I was surprised with the way Peter Wright played,” Van Gerwen admitted.
“He played a dominant performance. Fair play to him.”
However, he also pointed out that Humphries’ performance wasn’t up to par, suggesting that anyone who played well against him would have won.
With the quarter-finals just around the corner, Van Gerwen’s eyes are set on securing another triumph at Ally Pally, but it seems there will be plenty of off-the-board drama before the final dart is thrown.
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