Gerwyn Price wins tenth career European Tour title

Markham’s Gerwyn Price powered to a tenth European Tour title of his career, beating Ross Smith 8-6 to win the European Darts Grand Prix in Sindelfingen, Germany, on Sunday April 19.

Price becomes just the second player, after Michael van Gerwen, to reach double figures for trophies won on the European tour.

The 2021 world champion began his campaign by beating Dave Chisnall 6-4, before seeing off Chris Dobey in the next round by the same scoreline.

He then edged Martin Schindler 6-5 in the quarter-finals, and followed it up with a 7-4 semi-final victory over Wessel Nijman.

Then, in the final, Price stormed into a 3-0 lead – before Smith rallied with four consecutive legs to take the lead.

But the Iceman struck back with a 130 outshot in a 12-darter, before capitalising on Smith missing five darts at double to lead 6-5, to break throw and regain the initiative.

Despite Smith taking a 12-darter of his own to reduce the deficit to 7-6, Price saw out the contest with a 14-dart hold to seal victory.

“I’ve been in the PDC for 12 years now, so less than one a year on average isn’t very good,” joked Price.

“I was 3-0 up, then 4-3 down, and Ross started smashing the trebles in for fun. I was hanging on and hoping I got more opportunities, and I did. 

“Thankfully I won this one, and hopefully it will give me a bit of confidence going forward.

“I was just struggling to get over the winning line. I lost in the last European Tour final that I played in.”

He added: “I never used to have this support, but I’m cherishing every moment I get on stage – it’s brilliant for me and long may it continue.”

Speaking after his defeat, Smith said: “I’m absolutely gutted, but fair play to Gezzy, the better man won.

“It’s fine margins. You’re playing the best players in the world – if you don’t hit your doubles, you’re going to get punished. 

“The crowd was absolutely amazing. Thank you for turning up all weekend, you were brilliant.

“It is what it is. I’ll crack on with the next one.”