“If anyone is going to boo this kid, there’s something wrong with them” – Gerwyn Price praises Luke Littler after losing the World Matchplay final

After losing the final of the World Matchplay, Gerwyn Price could do little else but acknowledge Luke Littler’s superiority. The Welshman produced an excellent display in Blackpool with a 104.92 average, but even that was not enough to beat the rampant world champion. Afterwards, Price was full of praise for his young opponent.

For Price, the final marked his first title decider at a major televised ranking event since October 2023. The former world champion impressed on his route to the final by defeating Martin Schindler, Rob Cross, Ross Smith, and Gian van Veen in succession. In the final, however, he ran into an almost flawless Littler, who once again showed why he is currently the best player in the world.

Despite missing out on the Phil Taylor Trophy, Price can reflect on an outstanding week in Blackpool. Thanks to his runner-up spot, he pocketed £125,000 in prize money and also overtakes Jonny Clayton as the new Welsh number one.

Yet the overriding feeling afterwards was that there might have been just a touch more in it. "It’s been a great week for me, the fans have been brilliant, but I’m a little bit gutted as well.”

With this strong showing, however, Price demonstrated that he is fully back at the top. If he can maintain this form, it seems only a matter of time before ‘The Iceman’ lifts another major televised title.

Despite the disappointment of defeat, Price was particularly complimentary about his opponent’s performance. “Luke is one in a million,” said the Welshman. “I threw everything at him. I think I played pretty decent that game."

According to Price, a key turning point came early in the match. Littler produced a spectacular 167 checkout in the opening stages, laying down an immediate marker. “The bull checkouts he was taking out, like the 167 at the beginning - as early as it was, that was a big turning point,” Price analysed.

The Welshman went even further in his admiration for the reigning world champion, urging the crowd to give Littler the appreciation he deserves. “If anyone is going to boo this kid, there’s something wrong with them. He’s fantastic for the sport."

With a smile, Price added: “I wish he wasn’t as good as he was or I would have won a couple more tournaments!"

Although the defeat stung, Price looks ahead with confidence. The former world champion is determined to build on his strong form and renew his pursuit of major titles. “I’ll get back on the practice board and try my best, and hopefully I can get a little bit better."