Gerwyn Price is confident he can derail Luke Littler’s quest for consecutive World Matchplay crowns, arguing that certain competitors "make it too easy" for the reigning champion. The Welshman secured his first semi‑final appearance at the tournament since 2022 by edging out Ross Smith 16‑12 at the historic Winter Gardens. During that match, the "Ice Man" posted a 102.78 three‑dart average and sealed the win with a decisive four‑leg streak. In the next round, Price will meet world number three Gian van Veen in the semi‑finals.
The victor of that encounter will go on to face either Littler or Dutch contender Dirk van Duijvenbode in the final, which is scheduled for Sunday and will be contested over a best‑of‑35‑leg format. Littler has enjoyed a dominant head‑to‑head record against Price this season, winning every Premier League meeting between them as well as a nail‑biting final‑set showdown in the World Masters semi‑finals.
Meanwhile, Price – nicknamed "The Nuke" – has remained unbeaten in PDC major events that extend beyond 20 legs since his loss in the 2024 World Championship final. World number one Price is the overwhelming favorite to become the first player since Michael van Gerwen to retain the World Matchplay title.
He posted a 109.57 average in his recent victory over Josh Rock, yet he insists that his dominance can still be challenged. "I think there are a lot of players who can reach the level that Luke is at," Price told reporters after his quarter‑final win.
"Is there anyone who can do it as long 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 also highlighted the tactical aspect of the sport, noting that some opponents simply allow Littler to settle into his rhythm. "Sometimes players play into his hand and just let him play with his rhythm. It’s horses for courses, and sometimes you have to play your game, you have to play the moments," he explained.
"Sometimes, people make it a little bit too easy for him." The quarter‑final against Smith saw Price build a solid 12‑8 lead, threatening to pull further ahead before Smith fought back to level the match at 12‑12. Price eventually closed out the contest, reaching the last four but acknowledging missed opportunities. "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," he said.
"I keep thinking I should have been 13‑7 or 14‑6 because I wasted chances. I’m happy to get the win, but a bit frustrated as well." Van Veen, who will face Price in the semi‑final, admitted his own performance needs improvement after a hard‑fought quarter‑final win over James Wade, which he clinched 16‑13 despite posting a modest 93 average and squandering a four‑leg lead. "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," Van Veen told Sky Sports. He added, "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 at the iconic Winter Gardens on Saturday, with both semi‑finals played over a best‑of‑33‑leg format to determine the finalists for Sunday’s best‑of‑35 showdown. Defending champion Littler aims to secure back‑to‑back titles when he meets Dirk van Duijvenbode, marking his first appearance in the last four of this event.
Price, on the other hand, will try to overcome Van Veen in the opening semi‑final. Fans can follow the action live on Sky Sports, with coverage beginning at 7:30 pm on Sky Sports Action and around 9:00 pm on Sky Sports Main Event. The tournament can also be streamed through the NOW platform, offering viewers a convenient way to watch darts and other top‑level sports throughout the weekend.
Overall, the semi‑final stage promises high‑drama encounters, as Price looks to prove that his opponents cannot simply hand him victories, while Littler seeks to cement his place among the sport’s elite by defending his title against a seasoned Dutch opponent. The outcomes of these matches will set the tone for a thrilling final, where the world will watch to see who emerges as the 2026 World Matchplay champion.