Gian van Veen has provided an update on his recovery from kidney stones, which forced him to miss last week's Premier League Darts event in Dublin and the Belgian Darts Open. The Dutch player shared images over the weekend of himself in hospital but has since returned to practice, posting clips on Instagram of him hitting 180s.
In a statement, Van Veen detailed his recovery process, saying, "Following the surgery to remove my kidney stones, recovery has been a process that requires patience. Unfortunately, that is something that does not come easy when all you want to do is compete in this packed schedule. However, the fatigue is real. My energy levels are still lower than I hoped and every day I have to be smart about how I use it. But where my body allows it, I am on the board. Practicing, working and rebuilding on getting back to where I want to be. These clips are a small glimpse of that process. It is not where I want to be yet, but it is progress and right now progress is everything."
Van Veen is using the upcoming Premier League night in Berlin on Thursday as motivation for a swift return. He stated, "Berlin is the goal. Walking out onto that Premier League stage and making my comeback at the oche is what is driving me through every session, every day. I am doing everything to be there this Thursday. However, I need to listen to my body and not rush into any decisions. As important as the Premier League is, my health is more important. The will is there. The motivation has definitely never left. Now it is about making sure everything aligns in time. Berlin, I hope to see you on Thursday." He also gave an update on Vincent van der Voort's Darts Draait Door podcast, noting he was looking to build up over the past day.
Despite his aim for Berlin, Van Veen acknowledged he likely won't play unless he is 100% and may need to decide soon before traveling. It is presumed he will likely miss ProTour action next week on 30th/31st and will aim for a bigger return on Easter weekend in Munich.
