Darts
2024 World Matchplay: Michael Smith and Michael van Gerwen Ready to Renew Rivalry
Van Gerwen vs. Smith: A high-stakes World Matchplay semi-final fuels their fierce rivalry.
As the 2024 World Matchplay heads into the semi-final stage, fans are eagerly anticipating a clash of titans: Michael van Gerwen versus Michael Smith. Both players have stormed through their quarterfinal matches, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying encounter.
MVG Fears Nobody
Michael van Gerwen triumphed over Andrew Gilding with a decisive 16-9 victory. However, Van Gerwen wasn’t entirely satisfied with his performance, particularly with Gilding’s slower pace of play.
Reflecting on his match, Van Gerwen admitted, “I was just winding myself up too much. I know I've got the ability to make him suffer, but then you have to do it at the right moments, and I was missing too many doubles.”
Despite his frustration, Van Gerwen acknowledged the need to maintain consistent preparation regardless of the opponent.
“My preparation is exactly the same. It doesn’t matter if it’s Luke Littler, Phil Taylor, Glen Durrant, or Gary Anderson. You always need to prepare the same, or you’re failing yourself,” he told SportsBoom.com.
Still More in the Tank
Looking ahead to his semi-final showdown with Smith, Van Gerwen recognised the challenges posed by his opponent’s faster style of play: “Michael Smith is definitely a quicker player, that’s something to worry about.”
Nonetheless, Van Gerwen remains confident, stating, “I’m just going to enjoy this win, and then when I play tomorrow, I’ll do the damage then. There’s still more in the tank.”
Michael vs. Michael: The Story Continues
Michael Smith, on the other hand, dismantled Rob Cross with a commanding 16-7 performance in his quarterfinal match. Smith, known for his fiery rivalry with van Gerwen, teased the crowd with anticipation.
“Me and Michael will be throwing in circles tomorrow. We’ll both forget about what’s happened tonight and bring one of the best games for the crowd to see,” Smith commented.
“You’ve never seen a bad game between us. Hopefully Michael doesn’t find his form, and I do.”
Image credit: PDC
Ripping Each Other’s Heads Off
The renewed rivalry between Smith and Van Gerwen is a focal point of this semi-final, especially considering their history of high-stakes encounters. Smith reminisced about their previous battles, including the 2023 World final where he finally got the better of Van Gerwen.
“I’ve always wanted to play him in finals. He always tells me how far I’ve come, and what more I need to do,” Smith reflected.
“I always want to rip his head off, and he always wants to rip mine off.”
A Lack of Respect on Smith’s Name
Smith also addressed the perception among some players that he is an easier draw compared to other top competitors.
“People are happy when they draw me. You could be getting, Gary Anderson, van Gerwen or Luke Humphries. They’re happy when they get me. I just need to show them why they shouldn’t be happy.”
“Van Gerwen is probably thinking Rob Cross is the better player currently, so I need to show him why I’m here and bring my A game.”
With both players bringing a mix of intensity, strategy, and personal rivalry to the table, the semi-final between Michael van Gerwen and Michael Smith is set to be a thrilling spectacle.
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