“It Doesn’t Get the Energy Going”: Gerwyn Price Reaches Grand Slam Semis but Isn’t Convinced by New Walk-On
Gerwyn Price may be back in the Grand Slam of Darts semi-finals for the first time in three years, but the former world champion says he is far from sold on the PDC’s newly-introduced walk-on format — admitting after his 16–11 win over Damon Heta that the change feels “flat” and “kills the buzz.”
Price, a three-time Grand Slam winner, produced his strongest televised display of the season to book a last-four clash with Luke Humphries. But in trademark Price fashion, he didn’t leave the stage without sharing exactly what he thought.
“It doesn’t get the energy going” – Price unimpressed
Speaking to Sky Sports after the victory, Price made clear that the new walk-on system — introduced this week to streamline match turnovers and reduce crowd congestion — is not hitting the mark.
“It doesn’t get the energy going. That’s the truth of it,” Price said.
“The whole point of a walk-on is to lift you, lift the crowd, get the atmosphere going. At the minute, it feels a bit… flat.”
Under the revised format, players’ walk-ons now begin backstage, with the arena lighting lowered and reduced crowd interaction. While the PDC says the change improves safety and timing, many players — and fans — have been vocal on social media about missing the noise, chaos, and personality that walk-ons are famous for.
Price didn’t call for the system to be scrapped outright but said it “needs tweaking” before next year’s majors.
On the board: Price looks like his old self
Despite his frustrations, Price delivered a sharp and composed performance to see off Heta, averaging 100+ and firing in eight 180s. His doubling percentage — a season-high 56% — proved the difference in a match that stayed tight for long spells.
The Welshman, ranked No.13, has now reached his fifth Grand Slam semi-final. A title here would mark his first major since 2022 and continue his impressive resurgence following his well-documented weight-loss transformation.
Growing debate among players
Price is not alone in his criticism. Several players have hinted this week that they are unsure about the new presentation style, which removes the moment where players high-five fans or interact with the crowd.
One top-20 player, speaking anonymously to reporters before the quarter-finals, called the format “weird” and “too quiet.” Another said the changes make walk-ons feel “like entering a TV studio, not a darts arena.”
PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter, however, has defended the move, saying fans will “adjust quickly” and that the organisation welcomes player feedback.
Humphries awaits — with his own concerns
Price’s semi-final opponent, world No.1 Luke Humphries, also commented earlier in the event that he finds the new walk-on “less atmospheric” but stopped short of criticising it outright.
The pair last met in a televised semi-final at the 2024 European Championship, where Humphries edged a tight battle. Price is still hunting revenge.
“Luke’s been the best player in the world for 18 months,” Price acknowledged.
“But I love these games. If I play how I did tonight, I’ve got every chance.”
Bottom line
Gerwyn Price is back in the business end of the Grand Slam — but he’s not thrilled about what’s happening before the first dart is thrown.
The walk-on debate is only just beginning, and if Price’s voice is anything to go by, the PDC may have some thinking to do before the World Championship.
