Gerwyn Price reveals reasons behind "really tough" World Cup of Darts decision as 'Iceman' pulls out of next month's event
Gerwyn Price has opened up on the reasons behind his decision to skip next month's hugely anticipated World Cup of Darts.
'The Iceman' had been expected to line-up alongside compatriot and close friend Johnny Clayton at Frankfurt's Eissporthalle, however, it will now be world number 60 Nick Kenny partnering 'The Ferret'.
Price's surprise withdrawal means it will be just the second time in 11 years that he will have missed the unique doubles-format event, having previously helped his nation to glory in 2020 and 2023, whilst also reaching the showpiece final in 2022 and 2025.
He did skip the 2024 staging due to health reasons, with Jim Williams filling his void, and has now revealed that he will be absent this time around for similar reasons.
"I'm not playing in the World Cup of Darts this year," Price exclusively revealed to bet365 when asked if he was looking forward to the competition last month.
I've had a lot of things going on, health issues and what not and I have got to prioritise things at the minute and manage my schedule accordingly.
- Gerwyn Price (bet365)
"It was a big decision that I had to make - either play the World Cup and miss some of the other events, but right now, I need to play in those ranking events and pick up as many points as I can.
"Listen, it was a really tough decision because I want to play in everything and I want to try and win everything, but sometimes you have to look at other things in life too.
"I will be hoping that Wales can go and do well, hopefully lift the trophy, but it means that I can spend some time with the family that weekend now."
Price has recently opened up on his struggles away from the sport, revealing he has been managing an ongoing medical issue for some time.
Posting on social media shortly after his defeat to Clayton in the Premier League in Leeds last Thursday, the 41-year-old said:
"Time to rely on Lady Luck and see what happens over the next two weeks, hopefully make the playoffs but need a lot of luck to go my way, hopefully see you at the O2.
"No good playing once a week and hopefully I get the results I want in 3 weeks time," he went on to say, with an emoji of a hospital.
Price currently sits third in the standings and in-line to seal a spot at the O2 Arena for the play-offs at the end of the month.
However, defeat in Yorkshire a week ago means he is now nervously looking over his shoulder, with Luke Humphries, in fourth, just two points behind him, and fifth-place Michael van Gerwen - who he takes on in a hugely important encounter this week - a further point adrift.
The top four will earn a spot at Finals Night, although just two places are now up for grabs with 2024 winner Luke Littler and Price's fellow Welshman Clayton already assured of qualification.
