Dimitri Van den Bergh has set his sights on Betfred World Matchplay glory next month, after clinching a second straight World Series title at the Viaplay Dutch Darts Masters.
Van den Bergh continued his blistering form to prevail in Amsterdam on Saturday, dispatching Dirk van Duijvenbode 8-2 in the final to scoop the £20,000 top prize.
The Belgian relinquished just seven legs across the weekend, having also dumped out home favourites Ron Meulenkamp, Jermaine Wattimena and UK Open champion Danny Noppert at the Ziggo Dome.
Van den Bergh becomes only the fourth player to win back-to-back World Series titles, joining the decorated trio of Phil Taylor, Michael van Gerwen and Gary Anderson in achieving the feat.
“You can add Dimitri Van den Bergh now. I’m part of this elite group,” said the world number nine, who claimed the Nordic Darts Masters crown a fortnight ago.
“This is incredible, and I want to continue to achieve more. I don't know if I've broken records but I won the trophy and that's what I came here for.
“You’re competing with the best players in the world, and I’ve won two out of two. To only lose seven legs in the event is amazing.”
Van den Bergh’s next opportunity for big stage success comes at the Betfred World Matchplay, which takes place from July 16-24 at the iconic Winter Gardens in Blackpool.
The 27-year-old clinched his first senior PDC televised title at the 2020 World Matchplay, defeating Gary Anderson to triumph in the behind closed doors event in Milton Keynes.
The Belgian made it back-to-back finals on his Winter Gardens debut 12 months ago, only to be denied by an inspired Peter Wright in last year’s showpiece.
However, Van den Bergh is now eyeing a place in his third consecutive World Matchplay final, as he dreams of lifting the title at its spiritual Blackpool home.
“My dreams are coming true, the hard work is paying off. I am very proud,” added the two-time World Youth Champion.
“I already want to play the next tournament. I want to continue this form and win as much as I can.
“I really want to chase another dream of mine by lifting the trophy in Blackpool.”
Van den Bergh is also targeting a Premier League return in 2023, after impressing on his debut 12 months ago.
The former World Matchplay winner narrowly missed out on Play-Off qualification last season, despite boasting the highest tournament average across the 16 nights of league action.
“The Premier League is a massive opportunity. You’re part of an elite group of players,” said Van den Bergh, who also featured as a contender in the 2019 edition.
“It is the best of the best. You’ve got to show your best in the biggest tournaments. You have to be winning majors, that is what will get you in the Premier League.
“My goal is to get back in there. I want to be a part of the Premier League again.”