The world number two praised his opponent Gabriel Clemens - who narrowly missed a chance to take the match to a deciding set - for the "grit and determination" he showed in London's Alexandra Palace on Sunday (28.12.25) night as he admitted his eventual 4-2 victory didn't come easily.

He told Sky Sports: "For me, I thought you have got control now. I didn't feel like I had dropped off. I thought Gabriel got a lot better and made me work hard for it.

"If that D13 didn't go on, it's 3-3 and I'm panicking! To get that double at the end, you see that celebration, that could be the difference between being a two-time world champion and not.

"Gabriel played fantastic there. He showed a lot of grit and determination, and I found that little level when I needed it, thank God!"

Meanwhile, Michael van Gerwen's aim for a fourth World title moved a step closer following a 4-1 victory over Arno Merk and insisted it had been an easy game for him, though he knows he'll face a tougher challenge in his next match against Gary Anderson.

He said: "Was it a contest? Not for me.

"I didn't play too well to beat him. We all know what he's capable of but I played good today. I had more in my power if I needed to, but I didn't need it, so it doesn't matter.

"Me and Gary always have good games. I have to admit, Gary has played some fantastic darts lately, especially in this tournament - 102 average, 103 average.

"I need to make sure I step up a little bit but I'm not doing too bad. I'm still in the tournament. I'm really looking forward to that game."