Van Gerwen insists 'winning is the best medicine' ahead of Grand Slam bid

Michael van Gerwen (Kelly Deckers/PDC)

Michael van Gerwen insists ‘winning is the best medicine’ as he aims to continue his impressive form at the 2024 Mr Vegas Grand Slam of Darts.

Three-time champion Van Gerwen will be among the star attractions in Wolverhampton this year, as a 32-player field compete for the £150,000 top prize from November 9-17.

Van Gerwen has enjoyed more success at this event than any other player in action this year, after lifting three consecutive Grand Slam titles in 2015, 2016 and 2017.

Following a tough start to 2024, the Dutchman has been one of the sport’s stand-out performers over recent months, following up his win at September’s Hungarian Darts Trophy with a brace of Players Championship titles.

“My confidence is there and I feel good, and I think that’s the most important thing for success,” declared Van Gerwen, featuring in his 17th Grand Slam campaign this year.

“I think in some patches I’m playing really well. In other patches maybe not stable enough, so you need to work on certain things.

“I believe I’m hitting form, but last year I felt like I was in the same situation and then I lost an unnecessary game in the World Championship.

“You can prepare yourself as much as you want, you have to produce it when it actually matters, and winning tournaments like the Grand Slam is always great.

“Of course it gives you confidence and energy for the rest of the year, because winning is the best medicine!”

Van Gerwen will kick off the round-robin phase against debutant Noa-Lynn van Leuven, a winner of four PDC Women’s Series titles in 2024.

The three-time World Champion will also renew his rivalry with Scottish icon Gary Anderson, with World Grand Prix semi-finalist Ryan Joyce completing a high-quality Group G line-up.

“I think all the players competing in the tournament are capable,” continued Van Gerwen, the number three seed in Wolverhampton.

“I think Gary Anderson, Luke Littler and James Wade – they are the top players from Pot Two, so if you look from that perspective, it’s a tough draw, but you just never know.

“It’s a short format, so you need to be sharp constantly and you can’t afford any mistakes.”