Michael van Gerwen has revealed that he has withdrawn from the upcoming World Cup Of Darts through injury.
While Van Gerwen has enjoyed a relatively successful start to the season, the Dutchman has suffered last-32 and last-16 exits in the most recent European Tour events.
The latest of those came over the weekend, and the 33-year-old has now revealed that he has been playing through the pain barrier with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
As a result, the three-time world champion will now miss the World Cup Of Darts with surgery planned for June 14, the day after the Premier League playoffs.
On social media, Van Gerwen said: "For some time now I have been experiencing a tingling sensation in my throwing hand and arm. Following medical assessment, I was diagnosed with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
"I have been receiving treatment for a while in order to ease the symptoms, enabling me to continue to play to a good level. However, it has become clear that I will require an operation for this problem to go away permanently.
"This operation will take place on 14 June, following the Premier League Play-Offs. Unfortunately, this means I will be unable to play in Players Championships 16-17 and the World Cup of Darts.
"It is disappointing to miss the World Cup, but myself, my management, family and medical advisors agree that it is the right time to fix the problem. I will make decisions on other events in June and July based on how my recovery progresses. It is my goal to be back to one hundred percent ahead of the World Matchplay."
Dirk van Duijvenbode will now join Danny Noppert in representing Netherlands between June 16 and 19.
Darren Plant
