Dimitri van den Bergh has insisted his sluggish UK Open ultimate tempo was “fully focused” on himself and never pushing aside Luke Humphries.
The Belgian edged a back-and-forth conflict with world champion Humphries in Minehead on Sunday (March 3), triumphing 11-10 to safe his second main title. He took a prolonged break on the drinks desk to regain his composure at 10-8 earlier than throwing for the match.
That earned him criticism from each the gang inside Butlin’s, a few of whom booed him upon his return to the oche, and from followers watching on at house. Van den Bergh responded to his “haters” whereas showing on Sky Sports’ Love the Darts Podcast.
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“Moments when I take a bit of extra time, it is good for myself. I am trying to provide for my family so it’s about standing there and doing my business,” he defined.
“It’s never about trying to take someone else out of their rhythm or their game. I am fully focused on myself. If I want to be at my best, I need to do what’s best for me, not my opponent.
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(Image: ITV Sport)
“I needed a few extra minutes to calm myself down as I knew what the situation was and I didn’t want to mess it up. Not everyone will love me, not everyone will like me. I just have to accept that.
“You have lovers and haters nevertheless it’s all about your self, particularly in a one-man recreation. You should prioritise your self. I’m a serious champion once more and that is what issues probably the most.”
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Humphries was magnanimous in defeat, though he did later criticise his opponent’s “incredibly slow” strategy. Van den Bergh was defended by Wayne Mardle.
He took to social media and argued: “This has been blown out of proportion. Sport is about discovering a method to win throughout the guidelines.”