Gerwyn Price has spoken about his health problems and struggles at the oche, hinting at a possible break from darts while also planning a switch to pool. The Welshman, ranked eighth in the PDC's Order of Merit, has produced some outstanding moments in Premier League Darts this season but has been dogged by inconsistency and health issues.
Health Latest
Price recently opened up about his ongoing health problems following a heavy Premier League Darts defeat in Leeds. His hopes of appearing at London's O2 Arena were dealt a blow last week when he was beaten 6-2 by fellow Welshman Jonny Clayton. Following the defeat, Price made an honest admission regarding his wellbeing. He said: "My focus is there, it's just health-wise I am not in a great place at the moment. But I am battling on and searching for some results. Hopefully in the next couple of weeks they will come and they will put me at ease. Then I will be able to enjoy darts again. Frustrating times."
Price also revealed that he will be withdrawing from the World Cup of Darts, where he had been set to represent Wales. It is the second time in three years that the Welsh ace has missed out on the World Cup. He later clarified on Instagram that the decision was not due to health reasons, posting: "Just to clarify, I have not withdrawn from the World Cup because of health reasons," along with three thumbs up.
Darts Retirement Intentions
Price recently hinted at potentially stepping away from darts. The Iceman lost 8-3 to Wessel Nijman in March's European Darts Trophy final and made no secret of his frustration. Taking to Instagram, he wrote: "Great weekend for me, another final but very frustrating in the end. Onto Dublin this week. Need a break from this, I think it's so tough mentally. But I'll push on, thanks for the support."
The 41-year-old's comments indicated he might be considering a break following his disappointing performance in Germany. Price has several ventures to focus on should he decide to take a temporary step back from the competitive scene, including running a farm in Treharris and operating a chip shop named Chippy 501. The former world champion has been diversifying his business portfolio beyond the sport in recent years. This started with purchasing the chip shop in 2024, which has since thrived in his hometown of Markham. The eatery was converted from a former pharmacy and Price admitted that overseeing Chippy 501 had distracted him from darts. In December 2024, he said: "That's probably why I was losing and playing rubbish - my mind was elsewhere. I'm glad now it's up and running rather than me having to worry about it too much. It wasn't just about opening it. I've got cameras in the shop and I was always checking them on my phone. Yeah, it can affect the oche. I'm eating fish and chips all the time. I set up a 10 per cent discount for myself."
Price has also highlighted his desire to win more titles in the sport. He declared in June 2025 that he wants to continue competing at an elite level for the "next ten years," suggesting that he will likely stay on the tour for the foreseeable future.
Pool Career Change Vow
Price announced earlier this month that he'll be switching sports later in May to participate in the 2026 UK Open Pool Championship, insisting he's "in it to win it." He received a wildcard invitation to enter the tournament, which takes place at the Brentwood Centre from May 26-31. The event will see more than 250 competitors from over 50 countries compete for a substantial prize fund of £167,500, with Price opting to accept the invitation. Price is a passionate pool player and appeared at last year's Mosconi Cup, taking part in an exhibition pro-am pool event at Alexandra Palace.
The Iceman faces a scheduling dilemma as he simultaneously tries to secure his place in the Premier League Darts play-offs, which takes place at The O2 on May 28. But he's insisted he can balance both disciplines and isn't simply there to make up the numbers at the UK Open.
