Gian van Veen Bows Out Early as Dutch Stars Shine at Grand Slam of Darts
It was an intense night in Wolverhampton as the Grand Slam of Darts group stage wrapped up, and for Dutch fans, it brought both celebration and disappointment. While four Dutch players secured their spots in the knockout rounds, Gian van Veen was the only one who couldn’t make it through.
Van Veen, who’s been in excellent form lately—especially after winning the European Championship just last month—faced Josh Rock in a decisive group-stage match. The 23-year-old knew exactly what he needed: a win to stay in the competition. But despite flashes of brilliance, a few missed doubles proved costly. Rock capitalized on every chance and sealed a 5–2 victory, sending Van Veen out of the tournament earlier than expected.
Also Read:- Jimmy Kimmel Mourns the Loss of His Lifelong Friend and Bandleader Cleto Escobedo III
- Jasmine Crockett Calls Jay Jones Text Controversy a “Distraction”
It’s a tough exit for the young talent, who had been seen as one of the rising stars in Dutch darts. Just a few weeks ago, he had stunned the darting world with his European Championship triumph, which many believed was his breakthrough moment. This early elimination serves as a reminder of how unforgiving the sport can be—one or two missed darts can change everything.
Meanwhile, his compatriots had much better fortunes. Michael van Gerwen, the three-time world champion, looked dominant again after a shaky start earlier in the group stage. Facing Scotland’s Gary Anderson—a two-time world champion himself—Van Gerwen played with power and precision, posting a staggering average of 108.45 and cruising to a 5–2 win. That victory secured him the top spot in his group and set up an all-Dutch showdown in the next round against Danny Noppert.
Noppert, on the other hand, had already guaranteed his place in the last sixteen before his final match. Though he lost 4–5 to Jonny Clayton, the result had little impact. He’s been consistent throughout, and fans are eager to see how he handles the challenge of facing “Mighty Mike” Van Gerwen next.
Wessel Nijman also impressed with a clinical 5–0 victory over Lisa Ashton, advancing comfortably to the knockouts. Alongside Jurjen van der Velde—who qualified a day earlier—four of the five Dutchmen in the tournament have now made it to the final sixteen.
For Van Veen, though, this elimination will sting. But considering his youth and the rapid progress he’s shown this season, it’s safe to say this setback won’t keep him down for long. Darts fans can expect to see plenty more of him on the big stage in the years to come.
Read More:
0 Comments