Michael van Gerwen has vowed to break his own record of tournament wins in 2016
Wednesday 27 April 2016 09:44, UK
Michael van Gerwen has warned his rivals that he plans to break his personal record of 18 title wins this year.
The world No 1 collected almost £1m in prize money from tournament victories last year and has already acquired a tally of trophies, including the UK Open crown in 2016.
Van Gerwen will be seeking even more major titles in the Premier League, World Matchplay, World Grand Prix and Grand Slam later in the year.
Gary Anderson, the defending Premier League champion, and a resurgent Phil Taylor should provide stiff competition, but the Dutchman is determined to surpass his own achievements.
"I feel good and I would like to win more tournaments," Van Gerwen told Soccer AM. "Last year I won 18, so that's my record until now, but hopefully I can break it."
Van Gerwen set the record for the highest average in a televised match during this year's Premier League, but revealed that he is spending time away from the practice board.
Asked about his practice schedule, Van Gerwen said: "Honest? Not much at the moment. I had an exhibition yesterday, I saw that as practice.
"There are other important things in life, it's not always darts. I take the weekend off next week and then I need to be ready for the Premier League finals.
"I'm strict but it depends for what kind of tournament."
In the early stages of his career, Van Gerwen admitted he was overawed by more experienced opponents, but feels he now holds a daunting reputation.
"When you are confident, that is the most important thing in darts I think," said 'Mighty Mike'. "You've got to be mentally quite strong and I think I'm quite strong, especially at the moment.
"When you're playing well, it's easier to get your focus there and you're more confident - people look up to you.
"People like Kevin Painter, I used to think it's going to be a difficult game, but now I think a different way. They look up to me."
