Gerwyn Price has made an excellent start to the European Darts Trophy, posting a 106.7 average in a strong performance that sent a clear message to the rest of the field. The former world champion secured a 6–2 win over Joe Cullen in the second round, with Price himself noting the high level from both players. "I felt like I was playing well. The crowd was right behind me and I felt like Joe was playing well as well," Price said. "Probably the best he’s played for a long time, and that happens against me every single time, so I was expecting it. But yeah, I was on my game."
Price emphasized that opponents often raise their game when facing him, a trend he sees as routine. "That happens against me every single time, so I was expecting it," he added. The match featured long phases where both players pushed each other to a high standard, with early pace and regular trebles, but Price stayed consistent to gradually take control. He reflected, "It was another good performance and, like you said, a 106 average." Price believes such contests help maintain high standards, stating, "Yeah, I mean, I usually bring the best out of everyone! It’s like everybody plays their best game against me, but I’m ready for them." He doesn't worry about this, focusing instead on his own performance: "No, I don’t worry about any other player. I’m fully focused and concentrated on my own game."
With this form, Price has big ambitions for the tournament in Göttingen. "If I can build on that and get better, I think this tournament’s mine," he declared, showcasing his self-belief. Next up, he faces Danny Noppert in the third round, an opponent he respects greatly. Price has won 14 of their 20 previous meetings, but he acknowledges Noppert's improvements. "Yeah, Danny’s a great player, a fantastic player. We’ve had some good battles and he’s only getting better and better," Price said. "He’s shown over the last 12 to 18 months that he’s improving massively." Price knows he'll need to elevate his game further: "I’ll need to be on my A game and probably play even better than I did today, so it’s going to be a tough one."
