Gerwyn Price is embracing the role of the underdog as he heads into the Betfred World Matchplay final on Sunday, confident that he can outplay defending champion Luke Littler in Blackpool. Littler arrived at the final after a dominant 17‑5 demolition of Dirk van Duijvenbode at the Winter Gardens, posting a 110.88 average and hitting 16 maximums in a scorching display of scoring power. The world No.

1 has maintained an average above 109 across all four matches on his route to the showdown, making him the clear favourite to become the first player to retain the title since Michael van Gerwen. Littler, meanwhile, is on course to set a new benchmark for the highest tournament average ever recorded. Price is reaching his first major televised final since his 2023 triumph and his first World Matchplay final since 2022.

The Welshman believes he can disrupt Littler’s title bid and has spoken openly about his mindset. "When I step into any match I see myself as the favourite," Price said after his quarter‑final win.

"If I bring my A‑game, it doesn’t matter who I’m up against – I’ll win, plain and simple." He added, "Everyone knows that if I’m playing at my best, I’m going to win. Luke can certainly lose if he’s not at his peak. If I’m on my A‑game, I’m fine – I’ll take the trophy." Price emphasized that his goal is not merely to reach another final or climb the rankings.

"I’m here to win," he declared. "I’m not content with just making finals and moving up the Welsh rankings.

I’m here to lift the trophy." Littler’s path to Blackpool was equally impressive. He wrapped up his semi‑final with a flawless 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 TV major to his 2026 collection, hoping to repeat his record of winning every major title he contests. "I’m capable of achieving great things in darts for myself," Littler said in his press conference. "If I keep playing like this, I’ll have a good chance of taking the trophy again." Both competitors acknowledge the intensity of a final.

Littler warned not to underestimate anyone, especially in a championship setting. "If me and Gezzy (Price) have a solid game tomorrow, I think I can win," he said. Price, however, noted that he has lost his last nine encounters with Littler, a streak dating back to the Bahrain Darts Masters in January.

Despite that, he believes he can improve on his 17‑10 victory over Gian van Veen and raise his performance level. "I’m in a major final and I haven’t played anywhere near my best in any of these games," Price admitted. "I know I have a lot more in the tank. If that comes out, I’ll lift the trophy.

If not, I’ll keep fighting." Littler also addressed the perception that opponents make his matches too easy. He argued that it’s up to his rivals to elevate their game. "Every player will need to play at least ten times better against me than they did in the previous round," he explained.

"They’ve been posting huge numbers consistently, so someone has to do something extraordinary to beat me. I just have to keep pushing forward." The final will be a best‑of‑35‑leg affair, slated for the evening of Sunday, with live coverage beginning at 7:30 pm on Sky Sports Action and Sky Sports Main Event. The women's side of the event will also feature a fifth edition of the Women’s World Matchplay, with Lisa Ashton defending her title and Beau Greaves aiming for a third win in four years.

As the anticipation builds, both Price and Littler understand that the slightest edge could decide the outcome. Price’s confidence in his ability to deliver his A‑game clashes with Littler’s relentless scoring and historic earnings.

The stage is set for a dramatic clash between a seasoned champion eager to reclaim glory and a rising star determined to cement his place at the top of the sport. Who will emerge victorious in the 2026 Betfred World Matchplay? The answer will unfold live on Sunday night, with darts fans worldwide watching to see whether Price’s belief in his A‑game can finally overcome Littler’s unstoppable momentum.