Gerwyn Price is embracing the role of the underdog as he steps into the Betfred World Matchplay final on Sunday, confident that he can outplay defending champion Luke Littler in Blackpool. The Welshman, who has been a dominant force on the circuit, insists that when he hits his peak performance – his "A‑game" – the opponent’s reputation becomes irrelevant and victory is inevitable. Littler’s path to the final has been nothing short of spectacular.
He stormed through the semi‑final with a 17‑5 demolition of Dirk van Duijvenbode at the historic Winter Gardens, posting an eye‑popping 110.88 three‑dart average and tallying 16 maximums. Such a display underlines why many pundits view the teenager as a potential record‑breaker; he is on track to set the highest tournament average ever recorded in a World Matchplay event.
Price, meanwhile, has been equally impressive throughout the tournament. In each of his four matches leading up to the final, he has maintained an average exceeding 109, positioning him as the clear favourite to become the first player since Michael van Gerwen to retain the World Matchplay crown. If he can sustain this level, he will not only add another major title to his résumé but also reaffirm his status as the world’s number one. This will be Price’s first major televised final since his 2023 triumph and his first appearance at the World Matchplay since 2022.
The stakes feel higher than ever, and he has made it clear that he is not merely content with reaching the final or climbing the rankings. "I’m in this tournament to win," he said after his quarter‑final victory. "I’m not here just to make finals and improve my ranking – I’m here to lift the trophy." When asked about his mindset, Price explained, "When I go into any game I’m the favourite – that’s how I believe and how I prepare. If I hit my A‑game, it doesn’t matter who I’m playing, I’m going to win, simple as that." He added that his confidence is rooted in a long‑standing belief that his best form is unbeatable: "They know if I play my A‑game, I will win.
Obviously Luke, if he’s under par, knows he can lose. If my A‑game’s there, I’m okay – I’ll win." The rivalry between the two has a fascinating backstory.
Price has lost his last nine encounters with Littler, a losing streak that began at the Bahrain Darts Masters in January. Despite this, Price remains undeterred, insisting that he can reverse the trend by improving on his recent 17‑10 win over Gian van Veen. "I’m in a major final and I haven’t played anywhere near my best in any of these games," he admitted. "I know I’ve got a lot more in the tank.
If that comes out, I’ll lift the trophy. If not, I’ll battle right through." Littler, for his part, is aware of the pressure that comes with being the favourite. After his semi‑final triumph, he celebrated a 13‑dart finish and became the first player in PDC history to amass £3 million in prize money.
The 19‑year‑old now aims to add another major to his growing list, hoping to repeat his success in the 2026 TV majors. "I’m capable of doing many great things in the sport," Littler said in his post‑match press conference.
"As long as I play like this, I hope I can pick up the trophy again." Both competitors acknowledge that the final will be a test of consistency and mental strength. Littler warned against underestimating any opponent, especially in a final. "You can’t underestimate anyone, never mind a final. As long as me and Gezzy [Price] have a really good game tomorrow, hopefully I can get the win over him," he said.
Price, reflecting on his quarter‑final win over Ross Smith, suggested that some players might make things easier for Littler, but the young star believes the onus is on his opponents to raise their level. "I wouldn’t feel that way," Littler responded.
"I know every player will have to play at least ten times better against me than in the previous round, because they have to. They’ve been putting in these numbers consistently, game after game, then someone’s got to do something really special to beat me.
I just have to keep going and going." The final is set to be a best‑of‑35‑leg showdown, scheduled for later on Sunday evening. Live coverage will begin at 7:30 pm on Sky Sports Action and Sky Sports Main Event, with the decisive leg expected around 8:15 pm.
Fans can also stream the match via NOW or other platforms that offer contract‑free viewing. Beyond the men’s final, the fifth edition of the Women’s World Matchplay will also be on display, starting at 1 pm on Sky Sports Action. Defending champion Lisa Ashton will look to retain her title, while rising star Beau Greaves aims for a third victory in four years. In summary, the stage is set for a clash between experience and youthful exuberance.
Price’s seasoned confidence and relentless pursuit of victory will be tested against Littler’s meteoric rise and record‑breaking form. Whether the Welsh veteran can finally break his losing streak against the prodigy, or whether the teenager will cement his place in darts history, the final promises high drama, top‑level scoring, and a showcase of the sport’s finest talent. The world will be watching, and the winner will walk away not only with the coveted Betfred World Matchplay trophy but also with a statement about who truly commands the dartboard at this moment in time.