Gerwyn Price has opened up about the physical issues that forced him to withdraw from the 2026 Poland Darts Open, the first European Tour event of the new season. The former world champion, currently ranked world number ten, struggled with significant back problems and felt "not quite fit," leaving him unable to prepare properly. "I was under the weather and I couldn't prepare right," said Price. "I had to take the weekend off and see the doctor, which gave me a bit of a boost. I wasn't sure what was happening. I had lower back pains and things just weren't right." The 40-year-old Welshman stressed that stepping back was necessary, adding, "I took time off, chilled out and feel a little bit better."
Price's return to action proved immediately successful. On the ProTour, he claimed the title straight away at Players Championship 6, underlining his form and resilience. Not long after, he returned to Premier League Darts, where he made his presence felt in impressive fashion. On Night 4 in Belfast, Price saw off arch-rival Michael van Gerwen in the quarterfinals, edging a thriller 6-5. He averaged 100.88 and produced a fine 102 checkout at a crucial moment, showing little sign of physical discomfort. His surge ultimately ended in the semifinals with a 6-5 loss to Gian van Veen, but Price could be satisfied with his display given the recent issues.
In the current Premier League table, Price sits in fourth place, having already secured a nightly win in Antwerp earlier this season to earn valuable points in the chase for a play-off spot. Looking ahead, the Welshman expressed confidence, partly because he has few ranking points to defend. "I'm hardly defending anything. Two years ago I had the worst year I ever had in the PDC, so I am defending absolutely nothing this year," he explained. "Whoever is above me, I am going to catch them. If I get through the first round, I feel like I am unbeatable."
