2024 UK Open: Master of Mindset Dmitri Van den Bergh Secures Semi-Final Spot

Belgian sensation Dmitri Van den Bergh aimed to secure consecutive UK Open semi-finals but faced a formidable challenge against the in-form Martin Lukeman. Despite flying somewhat under the radar in the tournament, both players stood on the brink of potential PDC major success as they prepared for their clash.

The scene was prepared for the last quarterfinal match, offering the opportunity to advance to the semi-finals alongside Luke Humphries, Ricky Evans, and Damon Heta.

Van den Bergh entered the stage with determination, claiming the initial four legs of the match, punctuated by a dazzling 132 three-dart finish. Despite Lukeman clinching the fifth leg early on, he trailed 4-1 as the players headed into the first interval.

After the impressive beginning, Van den Bergh's average gradually dipped below 90, providing Lukeman with an opening to stage a comeback. Seizing the opportunity, Lukeman secured three out of the following four legs. 

However, both players seemed to struggle with nerves, hindering Lukeman's ability to capitalise on his momentum. Van den Bergh pounced on Lukeman's faltering once again, breaking his throw once more to restore a two-leg lead as the match approached its final stages.

Image credit: PDC

The Dreammaker reignited his momentum with a burst of three treble visits over the next three legs to seize control of the match. He sealed his dominance with a composed 88 three-dart finish, extending his lead to 9-4 over Lukeman.

Despite missing four match darts in the 15th leg, Van den Bergh remained unfazed. He swiftly secured his spot in the semi-finals by clinching the next leg and the match with a successful double eight.