Michael van Gerwen has opened up on his coping mechanisms after splitting from his wife Daphne earlier this year. The couple were married for over a decade but decided to go their separate ways back in May. Van Gerwen spent a period of time away from the oche as he attempted to deal with his new reality.
Speaking at the time, he said: “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 As a result, I have withdrawn from the upcoming tournaments.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 has since returned to action but has been enjoying his time away from the sport, having been spotted partying in Ibiza. He also attended the iconic Tomorrowland festival in Belgium during his break from darts.
Speaking to Dutch outlet AD, the 36-year-old offered an insight into how he has been coping with his divorce while also speaking about his time on holiday.
“I’m just human, you know,” said Van Gerwen. “At some point, you want to think about nice things again, not just be preoccupied with the mess you’re experiencing at that moment.
“I couldn’t write this script myself, so I’ll have to deal with it in a way I think is right. You could just sit around and grieve all day, but that’s pointless. So you do fun things, take time for yourself.”
Some suggested that Van Gerwen was taking his eye off darts after being spotted at a Martin Garrix concert in Ibiza, but he was quick to shut down those claims.
“I was just on holiday with my kids in Ibiza, you know,” he said. “Yes, I did go out for a day, but doesn’t everyone do that? People emphasise that, but what others say about it doesn’t really matter to me.
“They should just experience what I went through. You have to get on with your life and find closure, even though that’s easier said than done.”
Van Gerwen also discussed his efforts to strike a new balance in life, with his children his top priority amid his ongoing divorce.
“I have all sorts of balls to juggle,” he added. “I’m still in the middle of the divorce. Not everything will be fine within a few days. You’re dealing with the final settlements, the aftermath. You have to do that carefully without mistakes.”
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