Boyfriend of ex-wife says he ‘pulled a trick’ on darts star as he opens up on romance
Daphne Govers’ new partner Robert has confessed to “pulling a trick” on Michael van Gerwen, acknowledging he and the darts star’s former wife had been acquainted long before their marriage ended.
Speaking to Dutch programme Shownieuws, Robert revealed the pair had “always clicked” during their lengthy acquaintance prior to becoming romantically involved.
“That’s when the spark ignited,” Robert told the programme. “It wasn’t the intention but it happened.”
He insisted neither he nor Govers wished to cause harm to anyone, including the three-time PDC world champion.
“We didn’t want to hurt anyone, not Michael, not anyone. It happened. It turned out a little differently than expected,” Robert explained.
The explosive interview follows Van Gerwen’s own comments to Dutch outlet AD, where he labelled 2025 his “worst year.”
Govers used the interview to push back against speculation circulating on social media, stating that not everything posted online about their situation was accurate.
She was keen to clarify that Robert had already ended his previous relationship before the two became a couple.
Michael van Gerwen and Daphne Govers pictured during their relationship
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Robert acknowledged the awkwardness of his position, particularly given his regular encounters with Van Gerwen through custody arrangements for the former couple’s children, Zoe and Mike.
“I find it difficult,” Robert admitted. “Of course, I pulled that trick on him, and I’m not proud of it.”
Despite this, he maintained he holds “respect” for the Dutch darts player.
“But hey, I chose my own happiness, and he’s welcome here,” Robert added.
Five facts darts fans might not know | PA/GBNEWS
Govers indicated she believes she remains on friendly terms with her ex-husband.
The interview also touched upon Govers’ unexpected pregnancy, with the couple anticipating the arrival of their child in January – merely eight months after her separation from Van Gerwen.
Govers described the news as a “miracle,” explaining she had required medical assistance to conceive her two older children.
“I didn’t expect it. I was at the hospital with the other two, too,” Govers said. “I couldn’t have gotten pregnant naturally. If it does happen, it’ll be a miracle.”
She also admitted the discovery initially left her reeling.
“My world was completely turned upside down. How am I going to handle this? But in the end, it all worked out. It’s more than welcome,” she said.
When pressed on Van Gerwen’s reaction to the pregnancy news, Govers was hesitant.
“I wouldn’t dare say. I don’t think very happy, but I really don’t know,” she replied.
Michael van Gerwen remains in contention to win the World Darts Championship | PA
Meanwhile, Van Gerwen remains focused on his campaign at the World Darts Championship in London, where he progressed to the fourth round following a comfortable 4-1 victory over Arno Merk.
The Dutchman’s next opponent is Gary Anderson, a fixture he approached with characteristic confidence.
“The first time I played Gary was probably 22 or 23 years ago,” Van Gerwen said during his post-match press conference.
“We know exactly what we have to do to beat each other.
“We’ve had so many great battles, and I hope we’re going to have another one in two days’ time.”
The three-time world champion had previously spoken of wanting to move past the difficulties of his personal life and concentrate on more positive matters.
