Dimitri Van den Bergh reveals how sports psychology led to 'special' UK Open victory

Van den Bergh – a World Matchplay champion in 2020 – stormed 7-2 ahead at one stage, only to squander six match darts in a dramatic conclusion as Humphries battled back from the brink.

However, Van den Bergh survived two match darts of his own in a breathless final leg, before regaining his composure to scoop the £110,000 top prize and clinch his second televised ranking crown.

“Luke showed again why he is a World Champion,” reflected an emotional Van den Bergh, who moves up to world number seven following his success at Butlin’s Minehead Resort.

“I lost my composure. I knew Luke wasn’t going to make it easy, but you have to dig deep, and all of a sudden it turned around.

“My Grandad passed away two years ago, and that’s my first major win since then, so it’s a really special moment for me.”

Van den Bergh endured a disappointing 2023 campaign which culminated in a second round defeat at the World Championship, and he believes sports psychology has played a crucial role in his return to winning ways.

“I’ve always been a bit uncertain when it comes to sports psychology,” admitted the Antwerp ace.

“I wasn’t sure if it was the right thing to do for me.

“I thought it was probably my last choice if I wanted to get stronger, but I thought let’s give it a go, and right here right now, I really feel that I made the right choice.”

Photo Credit: PDC