Darts sensation Kevin Doets, currently ranked World No. 32, is at a career crossroads. Despite his recent surge in form, including a Players Championship win, his path to representing the Netherlands at the prestigious World Cup of Darts is blocked by a formidable lineup of higher-ranked Dutch players. This competitive landscape has led Doets to openly consider a bold and surprising move: switching his national allegiance to Sweden. Such a switch could guarantee him a World Cup spot, offer significant financial benefits, and boost his international profile, even though his heart remains with his home country. He’s also proud of overcoming a long battle with ‘Dartitis’ to reach his current heights.
Kevin Doets: Rising Star Faces a Tough Choice
Dutch darts talent Kevin Doets has been making waves in the professional circuit. His remarkable surge in form has seen him climb to **World number 32**, a significant achievement marked by a Players Championship victory and a strong run to the final of the Austrian Darts Open. Had it not been for the exceptional performance of Josh Rock in that final, Doets could have secured two quick wins, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s most exciting prospects.
The Orange Wall: A World Cup Dream Delayed
Despite his individual success, Doets faces a unique challenge when it comes to international team competitions like the World Cup of Darts. The Netherlands boasts an incredibly strong contingent of players, making it exceptionally difficult for even top talents to secure a spot. Doets finds himself behind a formidable list of compatriots in the PDC Order of Merit, all vying for the two coveted places.
The players currently ahead of him include:
- **Michael van Gerwen**
- **Danny Noppert**
- **Dirk van Duijvenbode**
- **Gian van Veen**
- **Wessel Nijman**
- **Jermaine Wattimena**
“It’s just so hard lately to play for the Netherlands because two out of the top four are Dutch. So, it’s going to be very tough to get into the World Cup for the Netherlands,” Doets explained. This competitive ‘orange wall’ means his World Cup hopes for his home country remain a long shot for now.
A Bold Consideration: The Swedish Option
Faced with this reality, Doets is openly considering a surprising alternative: **switching his national allegiance to Sweden**. While his heart undeniably lies with the Netherlands, the opportunity to represent a country at the highest level is a powerful draw.
“I’ve thought about it. If I want to switch, I still have to wait for three and a half years. But I would like to play for the Netherlands rather than for Sweden,” Doets stated, highlighting his preference. However, he quickly added, “And of course, right now it’s a lot easier to play for Sweden.”
Why Sweden? The Benefits of a Switch
The prospect of playing for Sweden comes with several compelling advantages:
- **Guaranteed World Cup Spot:** If Doets were to switch, he would immediately become Sweden’s highest-ranked player, well ahead of Jeffrey de Graaf (ranked 55), who himself previously represented the Netherlands before switching to Sweden. This would virtually assure him a place at the World Cup.
- **Financial Aspects:** Competing in major tournaments brings significant prize money and sponsorship opportunities. A guaranteed spot means guaranteed exposure and potential earnings.
- **International Exposure:** Playing on the biggest stages offers invaluable experience and raises a player’s profile globally.
Doets acknowledges the practicalities: “We have to look at the financial aspect as well. But I would much rather play for the Netherlands than for Sweden. But if the opportunity comes that I can play for Sweden, I might take it, but I don’t know yet.” This shows his pragmatic approach to a difficult decision.
Overcoming Adversity: The Battle with Dartitis
Doets’ journey to the top has not been without its personal battles. He has bravely overcome ‘Dartitis,’ a psychological condition that affects darts players, causing involuntary muscle spasms or a sudden inability to release the dart. It can be a career-ending affliction for many.
“I think that looking back at that, I’m very proud of where I am now, and especially because of my dartitis and stuff,” he shared. “The dartitis part, that has always been a struggle because even though I haven’t had it for years now, it’s something that still sometimes shows up in the mind.”
This mental hurdle makes his current success even more remarkable. **His resilience and dedication, coupled with the support of his partner, have propelled him to new heights.** Doets’ story is a testament to perseverance, proving that even after facing significant challenges, a player can still reach the pinnacle of their sport.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Planet TV.
