Michael van Gerwen beat Callan Rydz 5-3 in a pulsating quarter-final clash at the PDC World Darts Championship on New Year’s Day.
Van Gerwen was in fine form and produced arguably his finest performance of the tournament so far. The Dutchman will now meet Chris Dobey for a place in the final.
Dobey is through to his first ever World Darts Championship semi-final after the Brit beat 2021 champion Gerwyn Price 5-3 earlier in the day.
Three-time winner Van Gerwen is through to his ninth semi. The pair will go toe-to-toe on Thursday night in what will be a blockbuster affair.
In the evening session, Peter Wright faces Stephen Bunting whereas last year’s runner-up Luke Littler takes on Nathan Aspinall. ‘The Nuke’ is the current 19/20 tournament favourite with the best betting sites in the UK.
"One of the best performances I've done in a long time" 💪
Michael van Gerwen reacts to his 5-3 win over Callan Rydz to reach the World Darts Championship semi-finals 🔊 pic.twitter.com/CEaRWdxZCg
— Sky Sports Darts (@SkySportsDarts) January 1, 2025
Michael Van Gerwen Beats Callan Rydz 5-3
Darts fans were treated to an Ally Pally thriller on New Year’s Day with Michael van Gerwen and Callan Rydz putting on a fine show at the oche.
Both players averaged over 100 in the eight-set classic. Van Gerwen is looking back to his imperious best going into the last four.
However, the Green Machine had a couple of hairy moments and Rydz looked like he may capitalise. The Geordie didn’t quite do enough before eventually succumbing to the excellence of Van Gerwen.
“He gave me everything. He didn’t stop hitting trebles. When I was 4-2 up I thought I broke him but he never gave up,” Van Gerwen told Sky Sports after the win.
“I was getting annoyed at a point! But I did it when I had to and I’m really happy with my performance. My game is in a good place. We are only in the semis, so it doesn’t mean anything yet.
“The game had everything, it had drama, 180s and to be part of games like this gives you a lot of joy. It’s one of the best performances I have done in a long time. I’m over the moon.
“I’ve had a tough year and been battling everywhere. I’m still here and believe in my own ability. This means a lot,” Van Gerwen concluded.
