In the demanding arena of professional darts, where precision meets endurance under glaring lights and roaring crowds, even the toughest competitors can be sidelined by forces beyond their control. **Gian van Veen**, the explosive 23-year-old Dutch talent ranked world number three and known as “The Giant,” has been navigating one such challenge after a painful battle with **kidney stones** that forced him to withdraw from Night Seven of the 2026 BetMGM Premier League Darts in Dublin.
The ordeal began on a Sunday morning shortly after van Veen returned home from an event in Göttingen, Germany. What started as discomfort quickly escalated into severe pain, landing him in hospital by Wednesday. Right up until the final moments, his primary goal was to take to the stage at Dublin’s 3Arena for his quarter-final clash against Michael van Gerwen. As he shared candidly, “Right up until the very last moment, my biggest goal was to step onto that stage tonight, but sometimes things are just out of your control.”
The PDC confirmed the withdrawal, explaining that the diagnosis made travel and competition impossible. Van Veen initially hoped to pass the stones naturally, enduring two gruelling days of intense pain. “I tried for two days to pass the kidney stones so I wouldn’t need surgery, but that wasn’t possible due to an infection,” he revealed. Doctors ultimately performed surgery last Friday to remove the stones, and while the procedure itself was successful, the road to full recovery has demanded patience and resilience.
In a heartfelt social media update that has resonated with fans across the darts community, van Veen opened up about the realities of post-operative life: “Small steps. Every day. Following the surgery to remove my kidney stones, recovery has been a process that requires patience.” He described how energy levels remain lower than expected, with everyday activities proving surprisingly draining. Spending time with family over the weekend highlighted the fatigue, and even a brief 15-minute darts practice session on Sunday left him “completely spent and wiped out.”
This honest glimpse into his struggle humanises the high-stakes world of elite darts. Kidney stones are infamous for their excruciating pain—often compared to one of the worst a person can experience—and when compounded by infection and surgery, they can sap strength from even the fittest athletes. For van Veen, who has risen rapidly through the ranks with his powerful throwing style, high averages, and fearless approach on the big stage, the timing could hardly have been more frustrating. Just months after reaching the PDC World Darts Championship final—where he pushed eventual champion Luke Littler to the limit in an unforgettable showdown—he was enjoying a breakthrough campaign filled with promise.
The Premier League Darts is one of the sport’s most prestigious and physically taxing competitions. Its unique league format sees the world’s top players compete in weekly nights across Europe, with massive prize money, passionate crowds, and intense scrutiny. Missing Night Seven in Dublin was not only a blow for van Veen personally but also for fans eager to witness his trademark 180s and clinical finishing. The PDC and his management team have agreed he will not be available unless fully recovered, prioritising long-term health over short-term participation.
Yet van Veen’s fighting spirit remains undimmed. His eyes are firmly set on Night Eight in Berlin’s Uber Arena this Thursday. “Berlin is the goal,” he declared with determination. “Walking out onto that Premier League stage and making my comeback at the oche is what is driving me through every session, every day. I am doing everything to be there this Thursday.” He acknowledges the need for caution, adding, “However, I need to listen to my body and not rush into any decisions. As important as the Premier League is, my health is more important. The will is there. The motivation has definitely never left. Now it is about making sure everything aligns in time. Berlin, I hope to see you on Thursday.”
As the countdown to Berlin continues, uncertainty lingers. Recent reports suggest van Veen is pushing hard in recovery, practising when his body permits and rebuilding his strength day by day. Whether he steps onto the stage remains to be seen, but the darts world is rallying behind him with an outpouring of support on social media. Messages of encouragement highlight his potential and the respect he has earned as one of the sport’s most exciting young stars.
Van Veen’s story underscores a broader truth in professional sports: behind the walk-ons, the thunderous cheers, and the record-breaking performances lie real human vulnerabilities. At just 23, he has already achieved what many players dream of—world final appearances, consistent high-level results, and a growing legion of fans drawn to his charismatic presence and raw talent. This health scare, while unwelcome, may ultimately strengthen his resolve and remind supporters that true champions are defined not only by their victories on the oche but by how they overcome adversity off it.
The darts calendar marches on with packed venues and electrifying action, yet the community pauses to wish “The Giant” a swift and complete recovery. If he does make it to Berlin, it will be a powerful testament to his dedication. Even if more time is needed, fans know van Veen will return stronger, ready to reclaim his place among the PDC’s elite. For now, small steps lead the way, each one bringing him closer to the stage where he belongs. The entire darts family stands ready to welcome him back with open arms and roaring applause.