Michael Van Gerwen ends 18 months of 'hurt' to win record-equalling Premier League title
- Michael Graham
- 14 June 2022
The first year of the revamped darts Premier League has ended in familiar fashion, with Michael Van Gerwen lifting the trophy.
Michael van Gerwen has won a record-equalling sixth darts Premier League title after he beat Joe Cullen in the 2022 final.
It was the Dutchman's first success in the tournament since 2019, and he becomes the first champion since the Premier League was revamped as well as taking home £275,000 in prize money.
Van Gerwen has drawn level with Phil Taylor after an absorbing night of darts in Berlin. It was also his first TV title for 18 months.
The final was a real nail-biter, with Van Gerwen edging it 11-10 after Cullen produced a 13-dart leg to force a decider.
Van Gerwen and Cullen both had relatively comfortable semi-finals, each winning 10-4 against James Wade and Jonny Clayton respectively.
"I have been going through a really tough time, so to win this title, it means a lot to me," reflected an emotional Van Gerwen.
"I'm a happy man. Joe Cullen was phenomenal in that final. What a day. I'm over the moon.
"Of course I am going for more titles now. To have won this trophy here in Berlin is amazing.
🗣 "This is the hardest title to win!"
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) June 13, 2022
Hear from a jubilant Michael van Gerwen as he became a SIX-TIME @CazooUK Premier League Champion! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/Zezy8P7Uhw
"This last 18 months has hurt me. I know what I'm capable of, but this crowd in Germany today, they were absolutely sensational. I think they were a credit to the sport."
It was a disappointing outcome for Cullen, who was hoping to become the latest player to win the competition on debut.
While he couldn't begrudge Van Gerwen the title, he admitted the result left him 'devastated.'
"Michael is a fantastic player and a fantastic champion, but I am absolutely gutted," Cullen said.
"I cannot believe I've lost, but credit to Michael, he is a great guy and a wonderful champion.
"I think the second leg cost me, missing three at 32 for a break of throw. I'm absolutely devastated."
