Gerwyn Price will miss the World Cup of Darts this week, with the Welsh star pulling out of the tournament due to family commitments. The prestigious event gets underway on Thursday, June 11 in Frankfurt, featuring afternoon sessions starting at 1pm.
Withdrawal and speculation
Price officially withdrew from representing Wales at the 2026 World Cup of Darts. Widespread speculation initially suggested health issues were the primary reason, following comments he made after a recent Premier League match in Leeds, where he admitted his health was not in a great place.
Real reason clarified
The Welsh star quickly took to his personal Instagram account to release a firm statement clarifying the actual situation. He explicitly told his followers that he had not pulled out due to any underlying health reasons. Instead, Price explained that the gruelling professional darts schedule had taken its toll and he needed a well-deserved break. He emphasised that stepping away from the World Cup was necessary so he could dedicate more time to his family.
Price said: “There needs to be a slot where I can take a little bit of time off and give some time back to the family because the schedule’s hectic at the minute. It’s just about taking a break and spending some time with the family.”
Replacement and history
Because Price made himself unavailable for selection, the Welsh team had to find a suitable replacement at short notice. World number 60 Nick Kenny was drafted in to partner Jonny Clayton, marking a significant step up in pressure for the tournament debutant. This is not the first time Price has skipped the pairs competition; he also missed the 2024 edition, where Jim Williams took his spot alongside Clayton.
Impact on Wales
Price's withdrawal is widely considered a massive blow to Wales's chances of lifting the trophy and claiming a share of the £500,000 prize fund. Price and Clayton have historically been a formidable duo, having won the tournament together in 2020 and 2023, while also reaching the final in 2025.
Going forward
Despite stepping back from the World Cup this summer, Price remains fiercely competitive in the ongoing Premier League darts season. He continues to battle for a coveted play-off spot, proving his temporary break from the pairs competition does not spell the end of his darts year.
