Gerwyn Price has made it clear that he believes he can halt Luke Littler’s attempt to secure a second consecutive World Matchplay crown, and he argues that certain competitors unintentionally hand the defending champion an easy path. The Welshman earned his first semi‑final appearance at the World Matchplay since 2022 by edging out Ross Smith 16‑12 at the historic Winter Gardens. During that match, the man known as the "Ice Man" posted a solid 102.78 three‑dart average and sealed the win with a decisive four‑leg streak at the end.
In the next round, Price will meet world number three Gian van Veen in a quarter‑final that determines who advances to the semi‑final. The victor of that clash will then face either the teenage sensation Luke Littler or Dutch veteran Dirk van Duijvenbode in the tournament’s final, which is scheduled for Sunday and will be played over a best‑of‑35‑leg format.
Littler has enjoyed a dominant record against Price in this season’s Premier League encounters, winning every meeting, including a dramatic final‑set decider in the World Masters semi‑finals. Conversely, Price – nicknamed "The Nuke" – has remained unbeaten in PDC major events that extend beyond 20 legs since his defeat in the 2024 World Championship final. This unbeaten run has helped him retain the world number one ranking and makes him the overwhelming favourite to become the first player since Michael van Gerwen to successfully defend a World Matchplay title.
Price’s recent 109.57 average in a victory over Josh Rock underscores his high standard, yet he insists that his dominance can be challenged. After his quarter‑final triumph, Price told reporters, "I think there's a lot of players that can get to that [Littler's] level. Is there anyone who can do it as long as him?
I think I can and I think there's a couple of players, but he's ruthless at the minute – these 109, 110 averages just look so easy for him." He added that some opponents seem to play into Littler’s rhythm, making it appear as though the young Englishman is cruising through matches. "Sometimes, people make it a little bit too easy for him," Price said, emphasizing the importance of sticking to one’s own game plan and seizing crucial moments.
Price’s own performance against Smith was not without its hiccups. He built a commanding 12‑8 lead in the quarter‑final before the match tightened to 12‑12.
Ultimately, he recovered to clinch the win and move into the last four. Reflecting on the encounter, Price admitted, "I was delighted with the way I played the majority of the game, but there are a couple of legs that I let slip and could have come back to haunt me in the end. I was thinking I should be 13‑7 or 14‑6 because I wasted opportunities. I'm just happy to get a win, but a little frustrated as well." Van Veen, who will meet Price in the semi‑final, also spoke candidly about his own quarter‑final against James Wade, which he won 16‑13 despite posting a modest 93 average.
He confessed to a poor scoring display, saying, "It felt very poor! My scoring was so terrible.
I was lucky James wasn’t scoring as well and my finishing got me through. The 118 finish – I really needed it. It was a tight battle but I’m glad I got the job done. Hopefully tomorrow I will be a lot better." The 2026 Betfred World Matchplay continues to unfold at the iconic Winter Gardens this Saturday, with the two semi‑finals contested over a best‑of‑33‑leg format to decide the finalists for Sunday’s best‑of‑35 showdown.
Defending champion Littler will attempt to retain his title by facing Dirk van Duijvenbode, marking his first appearance in the last four of this event. Meanwhile, Price will take on Van Veen in the opening semi‑final. The stakes are high, and darts fans can follow the drama live on Sky Sports. Coverage begins Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
on Sky Sports Action and continues around 9 p.m. on Sky Sports Main Event. For those who prefer streaming, the NOW platform offers live darts alongside other top‑tier sports. As the weekend progresses, the question on everyone’s mind remains: Who will emerge victorious in this year’s World Matchplay?
The answer will be decided on the oche, where precision, composure, and the ability to seize fleeting opportunities separate the champions from the challengers.