Van Gerwen looked in form in win over O’Connor
Two-time champion Wright averaged just 79.20
Michael van Gerwen showed his class as he powered into the third round of the world championship. The three-time champion struggled in his opening match but brought his best to brush past William O’Connor 3-1.
It was an impressive performance by the Dutchman, who reminded everyone of his credentials after a difficult year on and off the oche. Luke Littler and Luke Humphries are the leading contenders for the title in January but Van Gerwen is a threat playing like this.
Peter Wright’s confidence was wildly misplaced after he crashed out. The two-time champion was dressed in a Santa outfit but there was no festive cheer on show as Arno Merk won 3-1. Wright had claimed he was definitely going to win this tournament but was left red-faced with Merk, on debut, full value for the win, which denied the possibility of a third-round match between Wright and Van Gerwen – a repeat of the 2020 final.
