The 23-year-old Dutch star, currently enjoying a breakout maiden season in the Premier League, was set to take on compatriot and multiple-time world champion Michael van Gerwen in the quarter-finals at the 3Arena. Due to his withdrawal, Van Gerwen advances directly to the semi-finals with a bye, earning two league points and a +1 adjustment to his leg difference, while Van Veen’s leg difference receives a -6 adjustment as per the competition rules.
Van Veen remains under medical care after being diagnosed with **kidney stones**, a condition notorious for causing severe pain and requiring prompt treatment. He was admitted to hospital earlier this week, with the issue reportedly intensifying following recent travel and competition demands. The young player is expected to be discharged soon, but the timing ruled him out of tonight’s high-profile event.
In an emotional message shared directly with fans, Van Veen expressed his heartbreak over missing the Dublin night. “This is not the message I wanted to write,” he said. “Right up until the last moment, getting on that stage tonight was everything I was working towards, but sometimes things are simply out of your hands.”
He went on to outline the sudden onset: “The pain started Sunday morning, but got a whole lot heavier once I returned home after Göttingen. I am still in the hospital since yesterday morning, where I hope to return home later today or tomorrow. Unfortunately, I will not be able to travel to Dublin tonight for Night 7 of the Premier League due to medical reasons.”
The withdrawal marks a significant setback for Van Veen, who has quickly established himself as one of the sport’s most exciting talents. Ranked as the Dutch No. 1 and third in the world, he reached the final of the PDC World Championship in January in his debut appearance at Alexandra Palace, narrowly falling to teenage prodigy Luke Littler. In the Premier League so far, he sits in fourth place in the standings after six nights, having secured runner-up finishes on three occasions. His composure, accuracy, and fearless style have earned him widespread admiration and made him a fan favorite.
The Premier League’s grueling Thursday-night format, with constant travel across the UK and Ireland, places immense physical strain on competitors. Kidney stones can strike unexpectedly and sideline even the fittest athletes for days or weeks, highlighting the unforgiving nature of top-level professional darts. Van Veen’s strong position in the table means he retains a realistic chance to climb higher once recovered, with plenty of weeks remaining in the campaign to chase the coveted playoff spots and the £275,000 top prize.
The darts community has rallied in support, flooding social media with messages of encouragement and hopes for a swift recovery. Many have noted how Van Veen’s rapid ascent—from promising youngster to world finalist and Premier League contender—has injected fresh energy into the sport.
Tonight’s action in Dublin proceeds without him, featuring intriguing quarter-final clashes including Stephen Bunting against Luke Littler and Josh Rock taking on Gerwyn Price. While fans at the 3Arena will miss the anticipated Dutch derby, the focus remains on Van Veen’s health and his anticipated return to the oche.
At just 23, Gian van Veen has already proven his resilience and talent on the biggest stages. This unexpected health hurdle is a reminder that even the brightest stars face challenges beyond their control. Supporters everywhere will be watching closely for updates and eagerly awaiting his comeback, confident that the young Dutchman will return stronger and continue his remarkable rise in the world of darts.