Gerwyn Price is confident he can derail Luke Littler’s attempt to secure a second consecutive World Matchplay crown, and he argues that several competitors are inadvertently making the defending champion’s path easier. In the latest round at the historic Winter Gardens, Price recorded his first World Matchplay semi‑final appearance since 2022, edging out Ross Smith 16‑12. The Welshman, known as the "Ice Man," posted an impressive 102.78 three‑dart average and sealed the match with a decisive four‑leg run at the end. Advancing to the last four, Price now meets world number three Gian van Veen.
The winner of that semi‑final will face either Littler or Dutch contender Dirk van Duijvenbode in Sunday’s best‑of‑35‑leg final. Price’s comments came after his quarter‑final victory, where he noted that many players seem to hand Littler an easy ride.
"I think there are a lot of players that can get to that level," he told reporters. "Is there anyone who can do it as well as him?
I think I can, and I think there are a couple of players, but he’s ruthless at the minute – those 109, 110 averages look so easy for him." Price added that some opponents appear to play into Littler’s rhythm, allowing him to dictate the pace of the game. "It’s horses for courses, and sometimes you have to play your own game, you have to seize the moments," he explained. "Sometimes people make it a little bit too easy for him." The Welshman’s quarter‑final against Smith saw him build a solid 12‑8 lead before the match tightened to 12‑12. He then finished strongly to claim the win and reach the semi‑finals.
Reflecting on his performance, Price said, "I was delighted with the way I played the majority of the game, but there were a couple of legs I let slip that could have come back to haunt me. I kept thinking I should be 13‑7 or 14‑6, because I wasted opportunities. I’m happy to get the win, but a little frustrated." Littler, the current champion, has been dominant this season, beating Price in every Premier League encounter and edging him out in a final‑set decider at the World Masters semi‑finals.
Despite his success, Price remains convinced that Littler can be stopped. The world number one is the overwhelming favorite to become the first player since Michael van Gerwen to defend the World Matchplay title, especially after posting a 109.57 average in his victory over Josh Rock. Yet Price’s confidence in his own chances adds an intriguing narrative to the tournament. Meanwhile, Gian van Veen, who will face Price, admitted that his own quarter‑final win over James Wade (16‑13) exposed some weaknesses.
Van Veen posted a modest 93 average and even blew a four‑leg advantage before ultimately closing out the match. "It felt very poor!
My scoring was terrible. I was lucky James wasn’t scoring as well and my finishing got me through. A win is a win," he told Sky Sports.
He highlighted a crucial 118 checkout that turned the tide, saying, "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 at the Winter Gardens on Saturday, with the two semi‑finals contested over a best‑of‑33 format to determine the finalists for Sunday’s best‑of‑35 showdown. Defending champion Littler will meet Dirk van Duijvenbode, marking his first appearance in the last four of this event since his previous triumph. Price will take on van Veen in the opening semi‑final. Fans can follow the drama live on Sky Sports, with coverage beginning at 7:30 pm on Sky Sports Action and around 9 pm on Sky Sports Main Event.
For those who prefer streaming, the darts action is also available through NOW, which offers a contract‑free viewing experience. Overall, the tournament has highlighted the fine margins that separate victory from defeat in professional darts.
While Price emphasizes that some opponents may unintentionally ease Littler’s journey, both he and van Veen acknowledge their own areas for improvement. The upcoming semi‑finals promise high‑stakes encounters, with the potential for upsets and standout performances. Whether Price can fulfill his ambition of halting Littler’s back‑to‑back bid, or whether Littler will cement his status as a two‑time champion, remains to be seen.
The final showdown on Sunday will undoubtedly provide a fitting climax to a week of thrilling darts, showcasing the sport’s blend of precision, mental fortitude, and strategic nuance.