Gerwyn Price has revealed that deleting social media from his phone has become a key part of his World Darts Championship routine, a deliberate switch-off he believes can propel him towards denying Luke Littler a second successive title at Alexandra Palace.
The former world champion opened his campaign in emphatic fashion, sweeping aside Czech qualifier Adam Gawlas in straight sets while posting a 96.44 average and firing in six maximums.
Only two legs slipped away, both the result of missed doubles, in a performance that underlined Price’s intent as he targets a second Sid Waddell Trophy.
Price finds himself in the same quarter of the draw as Littler, the world No 1 and pre-tournament favourite, who has reached the final in both previous appearances at Ally Pally.
With the pair on a potential quarter-final collision course, Price has made it clear there is no fear of the teenage phenomenon.
“I am winning. Honestly, I’m not losing – nobody is beating me this year,” Price said after the match. “I delete my social media before big tournaments and just get into my own little bubble.
“I just believe that I’m going to win this tournament. I don’t care what the obstacles are in front of me. I know it’s going to be tough, it’s going to be very tough - whoever I play - but I’m definitely coming through every game.”
Gerwyn Price has revealed that deleting social media from his phone has become a key part of his World Darts Championship routine, a deliberate switch-off he believes can propel him towards denying Luke Littler a second successive title at Alexandra Palace
|PA
The decision to remove social media from his phone reflects a wider reset for Price, who has often found himself at the centre of online criticism.
By cutting off that noise, the Welshman believes focus and self-belief have sharpened at the right moment, even as attention intensifies around Littler’s bid to become the first player since Gary Anderson to defend the world title.
Price arrives at Alexandra Palace after a productive year away from the TV spotlight.
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Five facts darts fans might not know | PA/GBNEWSThe 40-year-old topped the PDC ProTour Order of Merit and collected titles on both the European Tour and the World Series of Darts, although a major televised final has eluded him since 2023.
A return to the latter stages of the World Championship would mark a significant statement.
Progress beyond the quarter-finals at Ally Pally has not been achieved since the Covid-affected tournament of 2021, when Price lifted the trophy behind closed doors.
This time, the atmosphere has been markedly different, with the crowd notably receptive to his opening display.
“I played pretty decent, I think, apart from the two legs I gave away,” Price said afterwards. “I thought I was alright. I need to improve to win this tournament, but for a first-round game that was okay.
“I don’t usually get this, so thank you very much. The fans have been great for me the last 18 months, two years.”
Gerwyn Price is confident he can reel in Luke Littler at this year's World Darts Championship
|PA
While the £1million first prize looms large, Price insists money is no longer the motivator.
“Honestly, if I win the million, it’s not going to change my life,” Price said.
“But I want to win trophies. I want to be back in the top four in the world and be where I think I deserve.
“As long as these crowds are where they are with me, I think I can win everything. I believe in my own talent and own ability but if people are saying that [the winner of Littler vs Price wins the tournament], then fair play to them."