Michael van Gerwen will go down as one of the greatest players to have ever played darts, but Chris Mason admits he’s worried about the Dutchman’s throw.
He has won 47 PDC major trophies at the age of 35 and reigned supreme as the World Number One from 2014-2021.
The last few years though have been a barren spell by MVG’s high standards, and the three-time World Champion has failed to pick up a ranking title in over 12 months.
In an interview with Online Darts, former World Matchplay semi-finalist Chris Mason discussed the evolution of Van Gerwen’s throw.
Chris Mason concerned about Michael van Gerwen’s current throw
Van Gerwen was the original Luke Littler and burst onto the scene as a teenager, winning the BDO World Masters aged 17.
Since that record-breaking win, his throw has changed considerably.
“Incredibly, his throw has evolved into what it is now, and it’s ok at the moment, but I think in time it will go one of two ways. Phil’s [Taylor] throw changed, but not that drastically, it’s opening the hand quick enough, he has so many low darts because he can’t open it quick enough and he can’t elevate it, but there are flashes of absolute brilliance,” Mason said.
He added: “Can he work on that and get back to somewhere near his best? Only time will tell, but there are worrying signs for me.”
Van Gerwen calls on Vincent van der Voort for help
MVG is concerned about his form over the past year and revealed to Wayne Mardle that he is not playing well.
Van Gerwen relinquished his Premier League crown last week as Luke Littler stormed to the title, with the former champion falling at the semi-final stage to World Champion Luke Humphries.
Speaking to Darts Now, the ‘three-time World Champion ‘Mighty Mike’ admitted he has enlisted the help of friend Vincent van der Voort in a bid to regain top form.
He said: “We’ve been working also on my throw, on darts, also mentality.
“If you’re comfortable with someone you talk, do you know what I mean? I honestly believe that can bring you further in the game.”
Van Gerwen’s attention now turns to the Big Apple as he looks to successfully defend his US Darts Masters trophy in New York this weekend.