As 2026 approaches, darts legend Michael van Gerwen faces a pivotal moment, both on and off the oche. The three-time world champion has endured a challenging period, with his on-stage dominance waning amidst significant personal upheaval.
A Year of Professional and Personal Challenges
For the 36-year-old Dutchman, 2025 has been a year of stark contrast to his previous decade of supremacy. He has secured just one PDC major title, marking his lowest annual tally since earning his professional tour card in 2011. This dip in form has coincided with profound personal difficulties.
In May of this year, Van Gerwen publicly announced his separation from his wife of 11 years, Daphne. The couple, who had been together since 2008, married in 2014 and share two children: a daughter born in August 2017 and a son born in April 2020.
Van Gerwen shared the news on social media, stating it was "with great sadness" and that they were facing a "difficult time." He subsequently withdrew from tournaments to focus on his family, a decision he hoped his fans would understand.
The Colossal Net Worth of 'The Green Machine'
Despite recent struggles, Van Gerwen's extraordinary career has cemented him as one of darts' all-time greats and wealthiest players. With 48 PDC major singles titles, he sits second only to Phil Taylor in the all-time rankings. He even surpasses 'The Power' in total PDC Pro Tour victories, with an incredible 90 wins.
This success has translated into a substantial fortune. Van Gerwen's net worth is estimated to be around £7 million, bolstered by over £10 million in career prize money. A recent boost came from an £80,000 winner's cheque after defeating Luke Littler at the World Series of Darts in September.
His wealth is further amplified by lucrative sponsorship deals with major brands in the UK and the Netherlands, including Leyland Trade, Keuken Concurrent, and Van Mossel Automotive.
Looking Ahead: Bullseye and Rivalry with Littler
Before the year ends, Van Gerwen will make a special guest appearance on the revived darts game show Bullseye, hosted by Freddie Flintoff, on Christmas Day.
His focus will soon return to reclaiming his spot at the sport's summit, a task that involves overcoming his new great rival, Luke Littler. It was Littler who defeated him 7-3 in the 2024 World Darts Championship final, denying Van Gerwen a fourth world crown.
Despite trailing 12-9 in their head-to-head meetings, the Dutchman remains defiant about his intimidating aura. When asked if he still holds that fear factor, Van Gerwen was unequivocal: "Yes, of course. Ask Luke Littler who he doesn't want to play. He will definitely say my name, 100 per cent."
As he steps into the spotlight on Bullseye, the darts world watches to see if 'The Green Machine' can channel his resilience and colossal talent to dominate the oche once again in 2026.
