Gian van Veen emerged victorious at the European Championship after a remarkable win against Luke Humphries. The 23-year-old Dutch player displayed remarkable composure to secure an 11-10 victory over the top-ranked player in the world.
The intense match at Dortmund’s Westfalenhalle saw Van Veen come back from a 4-1 deficit, endure missed opportunities, and eventually clinch the win with a decisive double 16 in the final set. Reflecting on his emotional win with ITV Sport, Van Veen expressed his disbelief and gratitude for the momentous achievement on German soil.
Praising his opponent’s performance, Luke Humphries, also known as ‘Cool Hand,’ acknowledged Van Veen’s resilience and skill, despite his own disappointment at the outcome. Van Veen’s triumph not only earned him a £120,000 prize but also propelled him to the seventh spot in the PDC Order of Merit, inching closer to the top five.
Van Veen’s journey to the championship match included notable victories over tough opponents like Damon Heta, Ryan Searle, and Ryan Joyce, culminating in a tense showdown with Michael van Gerwen in the semi-finals. Despite a minor hand injury during his matches, Van Veen overcame the challenges both physically and mentally to secure the prestigious title.
Van Veen’s ability to perform under pressure and overcome obstacles was evident throughout the tournament, ultimately leading to his well-deserved European Championship win.