“I think Luke’s had a bit of luck on his side recently” – Gerwyn Price not rueing tantalising Littler defeat as he looks to reinstate belief on the big stages

Welsh star remains positive despite narrow World Masters semi-final defeat, eyes Premier League success

Gerwyn Price has refused to dwell on his agonizing semi-final defeat to Luke Littler at the Winmau World Masters, suggesting the world champion has enjoyed some fortune in recent encounters while maintaining he won’t lose sleep over another narrow loss to the teenage sensation.

The Iceman had a match dart on double top to defeat Littler in their dramatic 5-4 semi-final clash in Milton Keynes, only to see the dart narrowly miss its target. Littler subsequently sealed victory in the deciding leg before going on to claim the title.

Despite the painful nature of the defeat, Price has adopted a philosophical approach heading into the 2026 Premier League Darts campaign, which got underway in Newcastle this week.

No Regrets, Just Reflection

“No, I don’t dwell on it too much,” Price revealed when asked about the defeat. “I know it’s my own fault sometimes why I’m losing matches.”

The former world champion was quick to point out that the match dart wasn’t the decisive moment. “The game could’ve gone either way. If that double top goes in, it’s different. But for me, it wasn’t that leg that cost me. It was the first leg of the first set — I think I could’ve gone two sets up and put pressure on him,” he explained.

The Luck Factor

In a candid assessment of Littler’s recent run of success, Price suggested that fortune has played a role alongside the 18-year-old’s undeniable talent.

“That format is difficult anyway — if anything, it can be a bit of a leveller. The game against Luke could’ve gone either way. Even the final between both Lukes could’ve gone either way,” Price noted, referring to Littler’s final victory over Luke Humphries.

“I think Luke’s had a bit of luck on his side recently, but hopefully that’ll change,” the Welshman added, hinting that he believes the pendulum will swing his way in future encounters.

Rebuilding Belief on the Big Stage

Now competing in his eighth Premier League campaign, Price is determined to finally add the elusive trophy to his cabinet after coming agonizingly close in 2023 when he lost the final to Michael van Gerwen.

“That’s what I’m here for. I want to win as many majors as I can, and especially the ones I haven’t won — and this is one of them,” Price stated with determination.

The 39-year-old has identified a crucial mental hurdle he needs to overcome. “I don’t think it’s far off. I just need a bit more belief in myself. I sometimes still doubt myself in big matches. But that’ll come with winning,” he admitted.

Price hasn’t won a major title since 2023, a drought that weighs on his mind. “I don’t doubt my ability — I know I can win matches. On the Pro Tour it comes easy because I’ve won there recently. But when you haven’t won a major for a while, you probably try a bit too hard,” he explained.

A Changed Man

The turning point for Price’s mindset came after missing qualification for the 2024 Grand Slam of Darts, a tournament he has won three times.

“Missing the Grand Slam a season or two ago really hit me. I was sat in the house for ten days not knowing what to do with myself. I realised I needed to be more positive when I’m away,” Price revealed. “When I’m away now, I want to give 110 per cent and stay positive.”

That renewed positivity extends to his experience on stage, where the once-hostile crowds have transformed into supporters. “It’s a lot easier when you’ve got support. If someone’s heckling or booing you when you’re on doubles to win matches, it adds pressure. It’s nice just to be able to throw darts without that,” he said.

Looking Ahead

Price’s Premier League campaign began with a tough opening match against defending champion Humphries. While he faces an uphill battle, the Welsh star remains confident that once he breaks through with a major title, more will follow.

“Once one major comes, they’ll come thick and fast. It’s just getting that first one again,” Price said, embodying the self-belief that could propel him back to the summit of world darts.

As for another showdown with Littler in the Premier League, Price is relishing the opportunity. “Next time, it’ll go in,” he declared when asked about that missed match dart—a simple statement that captures both his frustration and his unwavering confidence that his moment will come.