Michael van Gerwen got off to the perfect start in the Premier League by picking up victory on the opening night in Newcastle, but he is making sure to stay focused on the journey as a whole in the gruelling format.
Van Gerwen was in fine form at the Utilita Arena as he reeled off six legs in a row to sweep aside Stephen Bunting in the quarter-finals.
His power-scoring and strong doubling then helped him pick up a 6-2 win over Luke Humphries in the semis before he capped off his night with a strong 6-4 victory against Dutch compatriot Gian van Veen in the final.
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It was a marked change from 2025 for 'The Green Machine' when he failed to register a nightly win in the Premier League.
The seven-time Premier League champion returned to this format with a bang, though, sending out a statement that he still has the game to beat anyone.
While it was a strong night for 'MVG', he is making sure to stay focused on growing his game as a whole as he uses winning and enjoyment as his fuel.
"It's a very long route, but winning games is the best medicine for your form and everything," Van Gerwen said.
"As long as you keep battling your own battles, winning games, you get confidence, then anything is possible.
"I love playing in the Premier League because I love playing in front of big crowds. To play in front of all those thousands of people, it gives me a lot of joy."
Van Gerwen is the early table-topper and is looking to remain at the head of the field.
"For my mindset, I don't think that [winning] matters. I know I have a good mindset, but it's always nice to be in front of them instead of chasing them," he added.
"Now they have to chase me and make sure they battle back and make sure they get up the table as well.
"For me, it gets a little bit more relaxed, but don't get me wrong, it's going to be a long 15, 16 weeks ahead, so I need to make sure I keep my focus going."
'I did not find my A-game'
Indeed, the 36-year-old feels he picked up his win on Night One without even finding his top levels, which is ominous if he can consistently reach his old heights across the 16 weeks.
"It's definitely a good performance," he added.
"Without playing my A-game, I still won it. I was steady and had some fantastic finishing at the right moments.
"I know I can do better but this gives you confidence. Winning games is the best medicine and this means a lot to me."
Who will win this year's Premier League Darts? Luke Humphries will be defending his title and you can watch the action every single Thursday from February until May on Sky Sports. Stream darts and more top sport with NOW.
(c) Sky Sports 2026: Premier League Darts 2026: Michael van Gerwen says winning is the best medicine after Night One glory in Newcastle
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