The former wife of darts superstar Michael van Gerwen has announced she is expecting a child with her new partner, just seven months after her separation from the three-time world champion was made public.
A Personal Revelation and a 'Miracle' Pregnancy
Daphne Govers, the mother of van Gerwen's two children, gave an interview to Dutch TV channel Shownieuws in which she disclosed her pregnancy. She described the baby, due in January, as a 'miracle' child with her new boyfriend, Robert.
'I didn't expect it,' Daphne stated. 'I couldn't have gotten pregnant naturally. If it does happen, it'll be a miracle.' She admitted the news initially turned her world 'upside down', but she now says the baby is 'more than welcome'.
In a candid moment, she acknowledged her role in the situation, saying, 'Of course a mistake was made on my part'. She expressed a desire to keep the details private but confirmed that van Gerwen is likely not 'very happy' about the development.
Van Gerwen's 'Worst Year' and Road to Recovery
The Dutch darts ace, 36, announced the end of his marriage to Daphne in May with 'great sadness'. He subsequently took time away from the sport, later telling Dutch outlet AD that he 'couldn't write this script myself'.
Van Gerwen spent part of his summer attending music festivals like Tomorrowland and holidaying in Ibiza with his children, where he also saw a Martin Garrix concert. He defended his actions, stating, 'I'm just human, you know... You could just sit around and grieve all day, but that's pointless. So you do fun things, take time for yourself.'
He is now determined to put his 'worst year' behind him as he competes in the PDC World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace.
Focus on the Oche: Van Gerwen Targets World Title
Despite the personal turmoil, van Gerwen has been bullish about his prospects in this year's tournament. He has dismissed talk of rivals Luke Littler and Luke Humphries, insisting he 'does not care' about them until a potential semi-final or final meeting.
'I just need to concentrate myself on my own performance,' the champion said. His immediate challenge is a third-round match against debutant Arno Merk, with a potential fourth-round clash against Gary Anderson awaiting.
Van Gerwen, who won the world title in 2014, 2017, and 2019, was beaten by Luke Littler in last year's final and is fiercely motivated to reclaim the Sid Waddell Trophy.
