Darts legend Michael van Gerwen announces he is splitting from wife Daphne

Darts icon has announced that he has separated from his wife in a statement on social media. The Dutchman has been married to partner Daphne since 2014.

A statement on on Saturday afternoon read: "It is with great sadness that I inform you that Daphne and I have decided to end our relationship. As a result, I have withdrawn from the upcoming tournaments. I am sorry to disappoint my fans, but I trust that they will understand my decision. We are facing a difficult time and ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time."

Van Gerwen and his wife started dating in 2008, tying the knot six years later. Their wedding took place in Holland in 2014, the same year that Van Gerwen won his first title.

They share two children, a daughter born in August 2017 and a son born in April 2020. Daphne is a former hairdresser and a keen darts fan having followed Van Gerwen around the world.

Van Gerwen's announcement comes amid a tricky spell in his darts career. He failed to reach the playoffs earlier this week for just the second time in his career.

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And worryingly, opponent claimed he did not look himself while at the oche. Speaking on Thursday, he said: "There was a lot of emotion after walking off stage. I had to take myself away.

"I spoke so highly of Michael all week and go and win tonight. I don't know what is going on but he didn't look himself again. Even on that stage, he was giving up."

Darts icon added: "I feel for Michael, The man is a champion, a winner. It is only the second time he has not made the play-offs. He has said it, he has not been good enough at times.

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"I don't know how he feels within, he has just looked off. To not have won a week, he won four last year, that is a real blow for him.

"He came into this as the third favourite behind the Lukes and it was all going okay. Then it kind of took a turn for the worst. I don't know how bad the injury was but since missing Berlin he has played slightly well in my opinion."

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