Dutch darter Danny van Trijp has been forced to withdraw from the UK Open, citing overwhelming mental and physical strain linked to a serious car accident in September 2024. The 29-year-old, who qualified for the tournament by finishing in the top 8 of the Challenge Tour last year, announced his decision via a social media post, explaining that he cannot currently give "100 percent" at the board. Van Trijp emphasized that skipping the event at Butlin's Minehead was a difficult choice, but necessary to avoid performing below his standards.
The aftermath of the 2024 car accident continues to impact Van Trijp, with a legal issue now holding him responsible for the incident. He stated, "It's something that has been going on for a very long time and that I've been dealing with for months. I hope the end of this month finally brings clarity and that this chapter can be closed." The UK Open's demanding open format and long playing days made the timing unfavorable, leading him to conclude, "If I had played now, it would ultimately have become a match against myself."
Van Trijp's place in the tournament will be taken by Scott Campbell, whom he immediately wished success in the next round. Despite the setback, Van Trijp thanked fans and colleagues for their support messages and remains defiant, saying, "We'll just keep going." He held a PDC Tour Card in 2023 and 2024 and hopes to resolve the ongoing issue quickly to refocus on darts.
