Michael van Gerwen has been battling a persistent health issue since the start of the year, according to his compatriot Vincent van der Voort.
Speaking on the Darts Draait Door podcast, Van der Voort revealed the world No. 3 has been struggling with illness for months.
"He's been struggling with a virus or infection for quite some time now," Van der Voort said.
"He picked it up during his holiday in Thailand back in early January, and he just hasn't been able to shake it off. On top of that, he's not in his best form."
Michael van Gerwen has been battling a persistent health issue since the start of the year
PA
The three-time world champion has yet to win a Premier League night this season.
Van Gerwen's health struggles have coincided with a noticeable dip in form since his defeat to Luke Littler at Alexandra Palace in January, where he made the final of the World Darts Championship.
Most recently, he suffered a shock 6-3 loss to world No. 111 Niko Springe in the Players Championship 7 in Germany.
The Dutchman averaged just 89.91 in the surprise exit and left the tournament without any prize money.
Michael van Gerwen's form has gone off the boil since his defeat to Luke Littler at the World Darts Championship
PAHis ongoing health issues appear to be taking a toll on his performances on the oche.
According to Van der Voort, Van Gerwen immediately returned home after his defeat in Germany to seek medical attention.
"He was already at the doctor's this morning," Van der Voort confirmed..
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"The doctor told him it's really unwise to spend so much time on planes, as that's where bacteria spread easily. But what choice does he have?"
Despite these concerns, Van der Voort dismissed the possibility of Van Gerwen taking a break from competition.
"When is he supposed to do that? He's not in a position to just skip tournaments," he said.
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Despite his health concerns, Van Gerwen is set to continue his competitive schedule with Premier League Night 7 in Cardiff.
He begins his campaign against Luke Humphries, with their recent history offering a glimmer of hope.
The Dutchman won their last encounter 6-5 in Belfast, which may provide some confidence heading into the south Wales meeting.
This isn't the first time health issues have affected Van Gerwen's career.
Michael van Gerwen faces Luke Humphries in the Premier League tonight
PA
Last year, he underwent dental surgery for jaw pain that impacted his throw.
The procedure was significant, with Van Gerwen explaining: "I'll have an operation in which they're going to break my upper jaw and lower jaw. Put them right on each other."
His recovery included two years with a brace.
