### Gerwyn Price Targets World Matchplay Success with Renewed Outlook
Welsh darts sensation Gerwyn Price heads into the World Matchplay in Blackpool buoyed by a newfound sense of freedom, despite candidly describing himself as the sport’s “worst loser.” This year, Price is considered a strong contender for the coveted title, following a string of impressive results during the 2025 season.
In recent seasons, the former rugby player has sometimes appeared frustrated and weighed down by the pressures of top-level darts. Frequent issues—ranging from an unfavourable Premier League format to regular crowd jeering—had left questions hanging over his commitment to the game. At times, his discontent sparked rumours about an early retirement, a prospect that would deal a significant blow to the darts community given Price’s status as one of the sport’s most colourful characters.
However, Price credits a brief spell away from the oche during the latter part of 2024 for revitalising his approach. Missing out on qualification for the Grand Slam—a major tournament where he is a three-time former champion—proved pivotal. In his own words, the setback motivated him to reassess his mindset for the year ahead, with tangible results already evident.
Reflecting on this shift, Price explained earlier in 2025, “My main priority now is to enjoy darts again. I think I was playing too many events and that started to drain me. Taking a break has reignited my passion for the game. Sometimes a step back is exactly what’s needed.” His performances certainly seem to have benefited: he has secured a place in the Premier League play-offs, reached the World Cup final alongside Jonny Clayton, and captured a ProTour title.
Although Price is yet to lift the World Matchplay trophy, the Winter Gardens in Blackpool holds fond memories for him. Notably, he threw a perfect nine-dart leg on his way to the 2022 final—only to be narrowly defeated by Michael van Gerwen. Asked about his ambitions for this year’s event, Price emphasised that his focus is no longer solely on silverware. “Of course, I’d love to win the tournament, but it’s also about earning vital ranking points these days,” he told Online Darts. “I’m no longer chasing tournaments just for the sake of it. I’ve eased up on myself and made it about enjoying the sport.”
Price is adamant there is no external pressure weighing on him as he begins his campaign against Northern Ireland’s Daryl Gurney. “The only thing driving me now is maintaining my position in the rankings,” he said. “I’m comfortable financially and not stressed about prize money, so it’s all about the love of the game again.”
The Welsh star’s passionate, outspoken approach has long been a hallmark of his play, occasionally putting him at odds with both fans and opponents. Yet, Price makes no apology for his fiercely competitive nature. “I absolutely hate losing—I’d say I’m the sorest loser in darts,” he admitted, adding, “You need to care that much if you want to be successful. Winning is everything to me.”
Despite this intensity, Price also demonstrated sportsmanship during the World Cup final, where he and Clayton graciously accepted defeat to Northern Ireland’s Gurney and Josh Rock. “Getting to the final meant a lot, even though missing out on the title was heart-breaking. Fair play to the Northern Ireland lads—they were superb.”
Now aged 40, Price reveals he remains optimistic about his future in the sport. “I don’t think I’ve reached my peak yet,” he said. “I’ve accomplished a lot but I still want more majors and another world title. As long as I keep enjoying the travelling and the competition, I’m confident more trophies will come my way. I feel I could easily be around for at least another decade.”
With his demons seemingly behind him, fans will watch closely to see if this revitalised Gerwyn Price can finally claim Matchplay glory and add another prestigious title to his growing collection.