Broadcaster forced to apologise after Michael van Gerwen accidentally drops F-bomb live on TV

Michael van Gerwen was so elated with his Premier League victory, he forgot he was on live TV.

The three-time world champion won his first Premier League night since April 11 in 2024 – or 665 days, for those playing at home – with a 6-4 win over fellow Dutchman Gian van Veen in the final.

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It was the dream start to the 2026 Premier League for Van Gerwen in Newcastle and he let his emotions get the better of him in his post-match interview.

Speaking to Sky Sports host Emma Paton and ex-pro Wayne Mardle on stage, Van Gerwen was reminded it had been a while since he last won a Premier League night.

The Dutchman bluntly replied: “It’s about f****** time.”

Realising his grave error, Van Gerwen immediately stopped talking while Mardle held his hand up as if to apologise on the victor’s behalf.

Paton could only look down the barrel of the camera before issuing an apology for those who heard Van Gerwen’s X-rated remark.

As for Van Gerwen, it was far from a vintage performance against Van Veen, who had earlier toppled the reigning world champion Luke Littler in the quarter-finals en route to the last match of the evening in Newcastle.

‘Mighty Mike’ averaged 97.81 and made 11 trebleless visits to the board along with no checkouts of 100 or more.

However, the fact he peppered in six 180s compared to Van Veen’s one meant his power scoring was there when he needed it.

Van Gerwen almost left the door open for Van Veen to swoop in and level the match given he burned four match darts.

But the 36-year-old showed composure when he needed it most, pinning double 14 to seal the win in the tenth set.

Sky Sports

Speaking after the win, Van Gerwen was fully aware he can produce much better than what he did in Newcastle, but recognised nights like Thursday are ‘the best medicine’ going forward.

“It’s definitely a good performance,” Van Gerwen said.

“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.

“It will be a long 16 weeks.”

Van Gerwen will look to make it back-to-back victories when the Premier League heads to Antwerp in Belgium for night two, which will take place on February 12.