Michael van Gerwen lashes out at Chris Dobey after latest remarks - 'Nonsense'
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Michael van Gerwen has dismissed Chris Dobey's suggestion that facing him would be "easier" than playing Callan Rydz as "nonsense" ahead of their World Darts Championship semi-final at Alexandra Palace.
The three-time world champion appeared bewildered by Dobey's comments, which were made before van Gerwen's 5-3 victory over Rydz in their quarter-final clash.
The remarks have added extra spice to Thursday evening's encounter, where both players will battle for a place in the final.
"People, when they win, they talk a lot of nonsense," said van Gerwen in response to Dobey's pre-match comments.
Michael van Gerwen has hit back at Chris Dobey
Reuters
However, the Dutch star was quick to acknowledge his opponent's abilities, stating: "Dobey is a very interesting player to play against because he can produce something really good."
"I'm not going to underestimate him because I had my battles with him," MVG added.
"I know what he's capable of and as long as you know, yeah, then everything is good.
Van Gerwen will compete in his ninth World Championship semi-final as he pursues a fourth world title, with his last victory coming in 2019.
The 35-year-old experienced an unprecedented drought in 2024, marking his first calendar year without a televised tournament win since 2011.
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When asked about reclaiming his status as 'King of the Palace', van Gerwen responded: "That would be nice.
"People probably know the answer, but no, it's a tough one."
The Dutchman emphasised the importance of dedication in his pursuit of success at Alexandra Palace.
Michael van Gerwen is desperate to win the competition
Reuters
"It's not about the title, it's about making a sacrifice," van Gerwen explained.
"You have to make sacrifices all year and wherever is on your path, whatever day it is, if it's Easter, whatever it is, the 14th, Valentine, Christmas, I don't care about that."
He added: "You have to make the sacrifice if you want to be the best in what you do. The will is there and I think that's the most important thing."
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Chris Dobey is in the semi-final of the World Championship
Reuters
For Dobey, this marks his first semi-final appearance at Alexandra Palace, having fallen in the quarter-finals in both 2023 and 2024.
The English player showed resilience in his quarter-final match, recovering from a two-set deficit against Gerwyn Price to secure a 5-3 victory.
"I believe I can go on and win it, I just need to keep performing the way I can and hit my doubles," said Dobey, who remains confident despite his earlier setback of squandering a 4-0 lead to Rob Cross last year.
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