Reigning UK Open champion Michael van Gerwen has withdrawn from this year's tournament due to a back injury.
The 27-year-old Dutchman, who also missed Thursday night's Premier League fixture against James Wade due to the problem, announced he had withdrawn on Twitter on Friday.
Just made decision, unfortunately I'm not fit enough to travel and play in U.K. Open. I'm gona work on strong recovery. Thanks to my fans!
— Michael Van Gerwen (@MvG180) March 3, 2017