The Paddy Power World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace is back in full swing after the Christmas break, and one of the standout fourth-round ties sees three-time champion Michael van Gerwen go head-to-head with two-time winner Gary Anderson. It’s a clash steeped in history, and van Gerwen has already added extra spice with a cheeky dig at his old rival’s regular retirement talk.
The Dutch star comes into the match on the back of a convincing 4–1 third-round win over debutant Arno Merk. Speaking after that victory, the 36-year-old couldn’t resist a playful jab at Anderson, referencing the Scot’s long-running habit of hinting that he may soon walk away from the sport. Anderson has spoken openly in recent years about stepping back from the tour, only to return and remind everyone of his class, and van Gerwen was quick to poke fun at that pattern.
During his post-match interview, van Gerwen joked that Anderson seems to be “retiring every year,” a light-hearted nod to the Flying Scotsman’s comments about possibly calling time on his career in the future. The remark was delivered with a smile, but it also reignited one of darts’ most famous rivalries. Despite the banter, van Gerwen was equally quick to show respect, praising Anderson’s current level and his performances at this year’s tournament.
The respect is well earned. Anderson has been in fine form, coming through a dramatic seven-set thriller against Jermaine Wattimena in the previous round. Averaging over 100, the 54-year-old produced moments of vintage brilliance, rolling back the years and reminding fans why he lifted back-to-back world titles in 2015 and 2016.
This latest meeting renews a rivalry that has delivered some of the sport’s biggest moments, including the memorable 2017 World Championship final, where van Gerwen triumphed 7–3. Their head-to-head battles are rarely dull, with both players capable of heavy scoring, big finishes and handling pressure on the biggest stage. With the Ally Pally crowd fully behind the spectacle, another classic could be on the cards.
Van Gerwen’s own journey to this point has shown signs of a resurgence. After a difficult year off the oche, he appears sharper, particularly on the doubles, an area he has openly worked on. His display against Merk underlined his scoring power and growing confidence as he chases a fourth world crown to add to his previous successes.
Anderson, meanwhile, continues to defy any suggestion that his best days are behind him. While he has often spoken about the demands of the tour and the possibility of retirement, his performances tell a different story. A victory over van Gerwen would be a huge statement and could set him up for another deep run at Ally Pally.
With the championship already full of drama and big names progressing, this showdown stands out as a highlight of the fourth round. The blend of history, form and friendly fire ensures all eyes will be on the oche when van Gerwen and Anderson face off, in a match that perfectly captures the tension, quality and theatre of the World Darts Championship.