Darts
World Darts Championship 2026: Michael van Gerwen Delivers Savage Dig at Peter Wright
Michael van Gerwen survived a first-round scare at the World Darts Championship before launching a brutal response to Peter Wright’s comments about his eyesight. The three-time champion dismissed his rival’s remarks with humour and trademark bluntness, insisting no one but himself can get inside his head as a potential Ally Pally showdown looms.
Credit: PDC
Three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen survived an early scare at the 2026 World Darts Championship after being pushed hard by Japanese qualifier Mitsuhiko Tatsunami in the opening round.
Tatsunami stunned Alexandra Palace by taking the first set and winning over the crowd, but Van Gerwen’s class eventually told as he powered back to seal a 3–1 victory.
While Tatsunami may have stolen hearts despite defeat, Van Gerwen made sure he stole the headlines afterwards.
Wright’s comments spark war of words
The Dutchman used his post-match interview to respond to comments made earlier in the week by long-time rival Peter Wright.
Wright, who progressed to the second round after beating Noa-Lynn van Leuven, was asked what separates the sport’s emerging stars — such as Luke Littler, Josh Rock and Gian van Veen — from the established names on tour.
The two-time world champion suggested age was catching up with the older generation.
Wright said: “I think their eyesight’s better than ours — that’s about it.
“Obviously, Gary’s on the glasses or contacts. I don’t know if Michael’s wearing contacts at the moment."
“But I think MVG’s vision is probably going — but he won’t admit it.”
‘I love to play Peter Wright’
Those comments were put to Van Gerwen following his win over Tatsunami — and the response was immediate.
“I love to play Peter Wright.”
Van Gerwen then hinted he would relish another showdown should both players reach the third round, a clash that would revive memories of their 2014 and 2020 World Championship finals.
“I hope he has a big mouth like he’s had for past two weeks. I keep smashing him in exhibitions.”
‘There’s nothing wrong with my eyes’
When asked directly about Wright’s suggestion that his eyesight is deteriorating, Van Gerwen offered a typically humorous and pointed reply.
Recently announcing his divorce from his wife Daphne back in May, the Dutchman joked that his vision was clearly still sharp off the oche.
“If you look at my new dates here and there, I don't think there’s anything wrong with my eyes. I keep getting compliments.”
‘A waste of my breath’
Off camera, with SportsBoom present, Van Gerwen was asked whether he believed Wright was already looking too far ahead in the draw and attempting to get inside his head.
True to his brash and uncompromising persona, Van Gerwen didn’t hold back.
“He has made so many comments over the last so many years to speak the name of Peter Wright is a waste of my breath."
“He can’t even win a raffle these days anymore.”
We finished by asking Van Gerwen whether anyone at this year’s World Championship could get inside his head.
The answer was short. The message was clear.
“No one, only myself."
Louis Hobbs is an esteemed authority on all matters sports-related. His wealth of knowledge and experience in sports make him an expert, especially when it comes to darts and snooker, which are his passions. Louis also has a deep affection for US sports, with basketball and American football his favourites.