The image is burned into the memory of many: Gerwyn Price, trailing in a crucial match, returning to the stage adorned with massive ear defenders. It wasn’t a tactical choice, but a desperate attempt to block out the relentless hostility of the Alexandra Palace crowd. For years, ‘The Iceman’ was the villain, a figure actively booed and antagonized by the very fans who fueled the sport’s electric atmosphere.
His 2021 World Championship victory, achieved behind closed doors due to pandemic restrictions, felt symbolic. The absence of the jeering masses allowed Price to finally claim the ultimate prize without the constant barrage of negativity. It was a triumph, yet tinged with the knowledge that it wasn’t earned in the crucible of the Ally Pally’s notoriously passionate – and often unforgiving – arena.
But something has shifted. A remarkable transformation is underway. Price now speaks of a genuine excitement about returning to Alexandra Palace, a feeling previously unimaginable. The jeers have faded, replaced by a surprising swell of support. He’s experiencing a level of acceptance he’s never known before, a complete reversal of fortune.
“Honestly, the crowd this year, or the last two years, has been fantastic,” Price reveals. “Wherever I’ve gone, I seem to get more support now than ever. They’ve totally flipped and started to support me.” This newfound appreciation extends beyond London, encompassing venues across England, Europe, and the world.
Away from the spotlight, Price is a reserved and thoughtful individual, a stark contrast to the imposing persona he adopts on stage. He acknowledges a productive year, marked by consistent performances on the tour. While major TV titles have eluded him, he’s confident in his overall form and determined to elevate his game when it matters most.
Recent runs to the semi-finals of the Grand Slam of Darts and the Players Championship Finals demonstrate his current prowess. Those defeats, however, came at the hands of rising stars Luke Humphries and Luke Littler, highlighting the fierce competition at the top of the sport. He’s close, but recognizes the need for unwavering consistency at critical moments.
“I’ve just needed to be a little bit more consistent at the right time,” Price admits. “I’ve got myself in good situations, but then I have to take my opportunities.” He understands that seizing those pivotal moments is the key to unlocking his full potential and finally securing another major television title.
His opening match at this year’s World Championship against Adam Gawlas is merely a stepping stone. The real challenge begins after Christmas, when the tournament truly intensifies. A potential quarter-final clash with defending champion Luke Littler looms large, a rematch with a player who has recently dominated their head-to-head record.
Despite Littler’s recent success, Price remains unfazed. He believes he’s let opportunities slip in previous encounters, and is confident that when he’s at his best, he can overcome his rival. “If we meet and I’m on my A-game, I will come through that match,” he states with unwavering conviction.
Littler’s impressive year is acknowledged, but Price subtly suggests the young champion might be prioritizing other accolades. “Luke has practically won all the big majors this year, but he’d probably swap one or two of those trophies to get past me and have a good run in this one.” The rivalry is palpable, and the prospect of a showdown at Ally Pally is undeniably compelling.
