Gerwyn Price has openly criticised the conditions at Butlin's Minehead Resort, the home of the UK Open, labelling it "not a good venue" for him. The former world champion, known as "The Iceman," stated, "I feel like Butlin's is not a good venue for me. I don't know why — the surroundings, and it is always freezing cold there." Price, who is currently ranked 11th in the world, believes these conditions make it "a difficult place to play" and hinder his ability to produce his best game, though he remains determined to seize opportunities if he reaches the latter stages.
Despite his venue complaints, Price is focused on winning the UK Open, a title that has eluded him despite reaching the final in 2017 and 2020, where he lost to Peter Wright and Michael van Gerwen, respectively. The 40-year-old Welshman told Red Dragon Darts, "The ones that I haven't won, like the UK Open and Players Championship Finals — there are a few on the list that I want to tick off." He sees a victory at this prestigious TV event as crucial for climbing back up the world rankings, adding, "If I go and win that and get myself back up the rankings, it's just going to build on the confidence and make things easier going forward."
Price also commented on the UK Open's unique format, which features a fresh draw after each round, leading to unpredictable match-ups. He said, "It is great. You can draw anyone; the hardest part is not knowing who you are going to be playing. I prepare as if I am playing the first game." Confident in his abilities, Price proclaimed, "I think if I am at my ultimate best, I am probably one of the toughest to beat," while acknowledging other top players like Michael van Gerwen and "the Lukes" when they are at their peak.
With his current form, Price emphasised a desire to keep playing rather than rest, stating, "It's good to miss a few tournaments now and then to recharge your batteries, but I think that when the momentum is there, you should just keep going." He concluded, "Otherwise I'm just sitting at home following the ProTours to see how everyone's doing. You might as well just be there yourself and play." Price will be in action at the UK Open this weekend in Minehead, aiming to overcome the chilly venue and add the title to his resume.
