Importance Score: 55 / 100 🔵
Gerwyn Price Withdraws from Austrian Open as Top Players Opt Out
The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) has confirmed that Gerwyn Price will not participate in the Austrian Open this weekend. The Welshman joins a growing list of prominent players who have chosen to forgo competing in this Euro Tour event. Other notable absences include Luke Humphries, Luke Littler, Michael van Gerwen, and Rob Cross. With these withdrawals, approximately ten of the world’s top 20 players will not be vying for the title in Graz.
Notable Absences from the Tournament
Besides Price, James Wade, Cameron Menzies, and Dimitri Van Den Bergh have also withdrawn from the competition. Thibault Tricole, Matthew Dennant, Patrick Geeraets, and Lukas Wenig will take their places.
Price’s Recent Success
Price’s absence is particularly noteworthy, as he would have been considered a favorite for the Austrian Open following his triumph in Liverpool during Thursday night’s Premier League event. He secured a convincing 6-2 victory over Chris Dobey, last week’s champion, in his opening match. He then duplicated that scoreline in the semi-final against Cross.
Premier League Victory in Liverpool
The 40-year-old went on to win the final, defeating world number one Humphries 6-4 in a closely contested match. “The Iceman” initiated the final with a break in the first leg, but Humphries retaliated, taking a 2-1 lead. Price swiftly responded with a 151 checkout, leveling the score at 3-3.
- The Liverpool crowd witnessed Price producing a 13-darter, propelling him into the lead.
- A precise 25 checkout solidified his control of the final.
- Price then secured the victory with another 13-dart leg, rising into the top four in the standings.
Price’s Post-Victory Comments
Following his victory, Price expressed his aspirations to Sky Sports, stating, “I just want to make the top four – it doesn’t matter if it is one, two, three or four – being at the O2 is my priority. Tonight was just about getting two points, I managed to get five so it eases a little bit of pressure next week. I am playing really well though so there is no reason I can’t win next week as well.”
Emphasis on Vital Points
“Every week is vital points. It was vital I got some points tonight. It eases the pressure for next week, and when there’s no pressure on me, I play some good darts.”
Appreciation for Crowd Support
He also mentioned his enjoyment of the supportive atmosphere in Liverpool, contrasting with the reactions received by players like Humphries and Littler on the same night.