Michael van Gerwen forced to pull OUT of Swiss Darts Trophy 2024 at last minute as he says ‘health comes first’

MICHAEL VAN GERWEN has withdrawn from the Swiss Darts Trophy after declaring “health comes first.”

The Dutch star was set to line up in the first-ever PDC tournament held in Switzerland.

Michael van Gerwen has pulled out of the Swiss Darts TrophyEPA

The event kicks off this weekend and will boast several top darts stars.

But Van Gerwen has pulled the plug on his appearance due to illness.

The popular Dutch slinger said: ”Unfortunately, I have to withdraw from the Swiss Darts Trophy this weekend as I’m not feeling well.

“Not the news I wanted, but health comes first. I’ll be back stronger soon!”

Van Gerwen’s absence comes just days after his success at the Hungarian Darts Masters.

He was set to play in Leicester at the Players Championship this week and even boarded a plane to the UK on Monday.

But Van Gerwen was also forced to withdraw from the event after feeling poorly.

He will now be hoping to return for the World Grand Prix next month.

And all eyes will be on his rivals as they clash in Basel.

Luke Littler and Luke Humphries are among those set to compete from Friday.

The likes of Nathan Aspinall, Gerwyn Price and Rob Cross will also be on show.

Meanwhile, PDC darts faces a battle to remain on Sky Sports.

Their contract expires next year after 30 years together.

And PDC chief Barry Hearn is demanding better terms if they are to continue in the future.

He said: “(Deal expiring?) Handy, that’s very handy. You know, timing is the essence of everything, isn’t it?

“Listen, we owe Sky a massive, massive debt. They stuck with us in the early days, and loyalty is a big part of our business.

“But, also, I have a responsibility to players to maximise their earnings.

“There’s going to be some interesting conversations. I really hope Sky raise the ante, understand what they’ve built. What it’s worth.

“Compare us to anyone else. Show me what you pay rugby union, league, golf, and tell me why I don’t get the same or more.

“It’s my job, a passion, and I’m building something that is my own legacy for when I’m not around.

“I would like the darts players in 50 years’ time to raise a glass to me. Is that big-headed? I don’t really care if it is, because I know I’m doing a good job.

“Everybody’s got to do well out of this deal, it has got to work for everyone, and I hope it’s Sky because they deserve it because of the work they put on.

“But, respect. Just give us respect and we’ll be fine. We’ll be fine and we’ll deliver value on a global scale you’ve not seen before.”