The Dutch darts maestro secures a hard-fought 10-8 victory in a gripping fourth-round match at Minehead Butlin’s.

Michael van Gerwen emerged victorious in a nail-biting clash against Dave Chisnall to advance in the UK Open. The three-time champion, fresh off a win in the Premier League’s fifth round in Exeter, edged past Chisnall 10-8 in a thrilling encounter.

Van Gerwen appeared set for a comfortable win, leading 9-5, but Chisnall, fresh from a European Tour victory in Germany, mounted a spirited comeback, claiming three consecutive legs and gaining the throw. However, Van Gerwen held his nerve to seal the match without the need for a decider.

After the match, Van Gerwen shared his thoughts on social media: “Relieved to come through that one. Dave is always a tough opponent, and tonight was no different. Now I can focus on the rest of the tournament.”

The opening night of the UK Open delivered drama across the board. Former champion Peter Wright scraped past Stephen Bunting 10-9, while Rob Cross staged multiple comebacks to edge Raymond van Barneveld in a deciding leg. Nathan Aspinall also fought hard for a 10-9 victory over Alan Soutar.

Elsewhere, Jonny Clayton won a last-leg thriller against Ross Smith, and Luke Humphries narrowly defeated Damon Heta. World champion Michael Smith cruised to a 10-4 victory over Ian White, Gerwyn Price dispatched Thomas Banks 10-3, and defending champion Danny Noppert overcame Jim Williams 10-8.

Notably, three-time UK Open winner James Wade was eliminated after a 10-8 loss to Gary Anderson, marking an early upset in this year’s tournament.