Michael van Gerwen tests positive for coronavirus, out of World Championship

Michael van Gerwen has been forced out of the PDC World Championship after testing positive for coronavirus.

The three-time world champion had been scheduled to take on Chris Dobey in the last 32 on Wednesday night.

However, the PDC announced shortly after 5pm that the Dutchman had recorded a positive coronavirus test, resulting in his elimination.

Dobey will now play the winner of the game between Dave Chisnall and Luke Humphries, which is due to take place on Wednesday.

The development comes 24 hours after Vincent van der Voort, Van Gerwen's compatriot and best friend on the PDC Tour, had to withdraw for the same reason.

Last week, Raymond van Barneveld revealed that he had also tested positive, 24 hours after he had suffered a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Rob Cross.