Gerwyn Price has laughed off rumours of his retirement after a sensational defeat to Luke Humphries in the World Grand Prix final. Price, 41, suffered a devastating 6-4 loss to world No. 2 Humphries after sailing into a 3-0 lead at the Mattioli Arena in Leicester. He allowed Humphries back into the game to finish as runner-up in a major final for the third time this year.
Third major final loss of 2026
He previously lost 18-9 to world No. 1 Luke Littler in the finale of the World Matchplay back in July. Price then followed up with an 11-5 loss to Ross Smith in the World Series of Darts decider in Amsterdam last month.
However, Price put any retirement speculation to bed via his Instagram story on Tuesday. Accompanied by a series of laughing emojis, he wrote: "Retirement??? I'm here for a very, very, very, very, very, very long time."
Previous hints at early exit
The 2021 world champion has previously hinted at an early exit from darts. He has discussed being disenchanted with the Premier League format in the past and suggested he might decline a future invitation to the competition.
Price has been battling personal health issues over the past 18 months or so, which has understandably diverted his attention away from darts. Earlier this year, he told fans he "needs a break" from darts, which he said has been "so tough mentally." However, Price also commented on how he sometimes says things in the heat of the moment that he later regrets.
Mardle backs Price
Darts icon and broadcaster Wayne Mardle gave Price his backing despite the latest high-profile loss to Humphries. Speaking after the World Grand Prix, 'Hawaii 501' rallied behind the Markham-born star and suggested it won't be long before he's back winning more majors.
"I don't think Gerwyn Price will give up," he told William Hill. "He's a born winner and was just disappointed after the final. He talked about making changes during last week to make sure he wins. He's desperate to and I can see him winning more tournaments. I even tipped him to win the World Grand Prix final."
Price has also expanded his business commitments away from the oche in recent years. He opened a fish and chip shop, Chippy 501, in his hometown in December 2024 and also operates a farm in Treharris.
Following the World Grand Prix, Price is seeded seventh for the 2026 Swiss Trophy, which gets underway on Friday. The calendar then turns to the European Tour finale at the Dutch Darts Championship in Maastricht, which starts on October 16.
