Darts icon Michael van Gerwen is confronting a startling new reality that could cost him a shot at a £350,000 payday and end his automatic qualification for the Premier League.
Rankings Freefall Threatens Automatic Spot
Following his 4-1 defeat to Gary Anderson at the World Darts Championship, the Dutchman's long-held position in the world's top four is under severe threat. Currently ranked third, Van Gerwen could be overtaken if both Jonny Clayton (4th) and Gian van Veen (5th) win their quarter-final matches on New Year's Day.
This would mark a dramatic shift for a player who has been an ever-present automatic selection for the Premier League since his debut victory in 2013. Van Gerwen has won the tournament a record seven times, but from 2026, he may have to rely on the discretion of a wildcard pick.
High Stakes for 2026 Premier League
The stakes for next year's tournament are higher than ever, with the total prize fund rising to £1.25 million and the champion set to pocket a life-changing £350,000. While Van Gerwen's legendary status makes him a likely wildcard choice, needing one underscores a significant decline in his ranking prowess.
His last ranking title was the Players Championship Finals in 2022, and his most recent world championship win was back in 2019. He could also lose his status as Dutch number one to the rising star Gian van Veen.
Personal Turmoil and a Promise to Return
The year 2025 has been challenging for Van Gerwen both on and off the oche. He described it as "the worst year of my life", following his separation from his wife Daphne Govers, who has since announced a pregnancy with her new partner.
Despite the setbacks, the three-time world champion remains defiant. After his Ally Pally exit, he told Dutch media: "I know better than anyone that it's going to be a very important year. I'm not running away from that... I know what I'm capable of. It hurts that I don't always show it, but I won't give up. Ever."
Van Gerwen will now prepare for World Series events in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, aiming to rebuild his form ahead of the Premier League line-up announcement in early 2026. The tournament begins in Newcastle on February 5.
