Daryl Gurney and Gerwyn Price's on-stage rivalry boiled over at the World Matchplay in Blackpool, with security guards intervening to separate the players after the match. The incident occurred following Price's 10-7 victory in the first round, during which both players exchanged heated words and gestures.
After Price sealed the win with double 12, he celebrated with screams and fist pumps, prompting Gurney to mimic his opponent's actions. The pair shook hands, but tensions escalated as Price shouted further celebrations, leading to Gurney's visible frustration.
According to Damian Vlottes of the Dutch Darts Draait Door podcast, Gurney attempted to confront Price again during a post-match interview. “Gurney was literally at the door with his head round the corner. Two security guards had to hold him back. He clearly wanted to confront Price again. He came in swearing,” Vlottes said.
Vincent van der Voort added that Gurney was “absolutely fuming” and insisted he had done nothing wrong. “All he said was, ‘I didn’t do anything wrong.’ He was angry, really angry. There was no calm conversation. He made it clear he’s not a fan of Price.”
Price declined to comment on the altercation, instead focusing on his composure during the match. “Five, six, seven years ago that game probably could have got away from me. I’ve learned to just try and keep my emotions intact at key points, and I did it today,” he said.
This is not the first clash between the two players; they were separated following a Premier League match in Sheffield in 2019 after Price taunted the crowd.
