Luke Littler’s remark that Gerwyn Price “made a mistake” by finishing fourth in the 2025 Premier League Darts standings could add fuel to their semi-final clash on May 29, 2025, at London’s O2 Arena. While the comment was lighthearted, Price, backed by Jonny Clayton to win the title, has a 7-2 head-to-head edge over Littler, including a 6-3 Nottingham final win. This dynamic, coupled with Littler’s reported frustration with darts’ demands, raises the question of whether his words might motivate Price to capitalize on their rivalry, mirroring French Open tensions like Daniil Medvedev’s Djokovic jab and Ons Jabeur’s scheduling rant.
Littler’s Comment and Price’s Response
Littler, the 18-year-old world champion, made the comment after topping the Premier League table with 45 points and six nightly wins. His comments suggested Price’s fourth-place finish, with 13 match wins, was a tactical error, as it set up their semi-final matchup. Price has not publicly responded, but his history of thriving under pressure—hitting two nine-darters in 2025, including one against Littler in Manchester—suggests he could use the remark as motivation. His remarks about his competitive nature show his ambition. Clayton’s endorsement, highlights Price’s “party-spoiling” ability, noting his 50% double success rate in Nottingham against Littler’s 103.39 average.
Price’s mental toughness, seen in his 2023 World Cup win with Clayton, contrasts with Littler’s reported fatigue. Aspinall’s claim that Littler is “fed up” with darts’ travel, and Littler’s own retirement hints, suggest vulnerability. Price’s 104.43 average in Liverpool’s nightly win, and his 6-5 Players Championship thriller over Littler, show he can exploit this.
Potential Consequences for Littler
Littler’s comment could “cost” him if Price, motivated by the slight, delivers a standout performance. Price’s 7-2 record against Littler, including a 6-4 Liverpool quarter-final win where Littler was booed, gives him a psychological edge. Littler’s 104.78 average in their May 8 Leeds clash, shows his prowess, but missing two match darts against Michael van Gerwen in Liverpool, highlights pressure-point fragility. Posts on X suggest fans see Price leveraging the comment.
However, Littler’s resilience, with a 114.37 average against Stephen Bunting in Sheffield, and his 160 checkout in Liverpool, proves he can handle adversity. His 1.9 million Instagram followers and YouTube ventures, indicate a mental escape from darts’ grind, potentially mitigating pressure. Dr. Linda Duffy’s burnout warnings, emphasize Littler’s support system, which could keep him focused despite the comment’s fallout.
Conclusion
Luke Littler’s quip that Gerwyn Price “made a mistake” finishing fourth, could cost him if Price, with a 7-2 head-to-head edge and two 2025 nine-darters, uses it as motivation in their May 29 Premier League semi-final. Littler’s reported frustration, and Price’s resilience, backed by Clayton, heighten the stakes. While Littler’s 45-point lead and 114.37 average, show his strength, Price’s form could make him pay, mirroring French Open pressures from Medvedev to Jabeur. Fans on X await whether Littler’s words backfire.
