Gerwyn Price: The Remarkable Rise of the Iceman

Like him or loathe him, there’s no denying that Gerwyn Price’s remarkable rise to the summit of Darts is one of the most intriguing of all time.

Now a household name in the darting fraternity, the Welshman didn’t even pick up his first piece of tungsten until the age of 27; just two years before turning pro. Quite remarkable given his current standing as one of the PDC’s most recognisable global flagbearers.

For those wondering why Price doesn’t instantly strike you as the stereotypical arrowsmith… well, simply put, that’s because he isn’t!

A hooker for Welsh Rugby Union sides Neath and Cross Keys prior to his unprecedented professional sporting switch a decade ago, there’s no doubt that the 38-year-old cuts a fierce and imposing figure.

His blown up chest and arms are far more synonymous with his former role on the turf than that of somebody toeing the oche for a living, whilst his shrink-wrapped-like shirt and, at times, aggressive on stage persona can understandably be misinterpreted as needless arrogance.

But for those fortunate enough to spend time in the company of the Welshman, you soon come to realise that he is in fact one of the most humble and down to earth players currently operating on the tour. Albeit one who is prone to letting his emotions get the better of him.

The way he has conducted himself on stage in the past has left a lot to be desired... 

He needs no reminding of his televised clashes with Gary Anderson and Adrian Lewis, nor his comical and controversial decision to don ear defenders at Alexandra Palace.

But beyond all of the hullabaloo and controversies lies a truly outstanding player – one, whom at the very top of his game, is largely perceived to be the very best in the business.

Yes, Price certainly knows how to rub people up the wrong way, but more importantly he knows how to win on the big stage, and, my word, he certainly knows how to fire home those astronomical three-dart averages.

He’s a former World Champion, a two-time World Cup winner and the three-time king of the Grand Slam of Darts; ‘Gezzy’ will always have his lovers and his haters, and, truth be told, he probably wouldn’t want it any other way.

This is the story of one of the sport’s greatest ever players and personalities, Gerwyn ‘The Iceman’ Price.