Former world darts champion Gerwyn Price has sent shockwaves through the darts community after revealing he’s been struck by a debilitating illness that confined him to bed for nearly an entire day. The Welsh star, known for his fiery presence on the oche, shared a candid update on his health, describing how he’s been unable to move due to the severity of his condition. As the 2025 PDC season intensifies with upcoming events like the World Matchplay and US Darts Masters, Price’s battle to recover has fans and rivals alike anxiously awaiting his return to form.
## A Sudden Setback for the Iceman
Price, nicknamed “The Iceman” for his cool-headed precision, took to social media to detail his ordeal, revealing he had spent “18 of the last 24 hours in bed” after being floored by sickness. The 39-year-old, who has been a mainstay at the top of the PDC rankings, described the illness as so severe that it left him incapacitated. “I couldn’t even move,” he admitted, underscoring the physical toll it took. While Price didn’t disclose the exact nature of his condition, his openness about the struggle has sparked concern among supporters, especially given his packed schedule in the coming weeks.
The timing couldn’t be worse for the 2021 World Champion, who is gearing up for the World Matchplay, set for July 12-20, 2025, at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens. As one of the PDC’s premier events, the tournament demands peak performance, and Price’s recent form—highlighted by his leadership in Ordinal Checkout Efficiency (OChE)—had positioned him as a top contender. His ability to convert high averages into legs won, as noted by statistician Christopher Kempf, has been unmatched, making his sudden health setback a potential game-changer for the competition.
## Price’s Resilience and Road to Recovery
Despite the alarming update, Price struck a defiant tone, vowing to fight his way back to fitness. “I’m not one to stay down for long,” he declared, a sentiment that resonates with his reputation as one of darts’ toughest competitors. Known for his relentless work ethic and physical conditioning, Price has overcome challenges before, including injuries and intense rivalries. His 2024 season saw him reclaim a spot among the PDC’s elite, with standout performances on the European Tour and a strong showing at the US Darts Masters, where he narrowly lost to Rob Cross in the 2024 final.
Price’s team has remained tight-lipped about his medical treatment, but sources close to the player suggest he’s receiving round-the-clock care to ensure a swift recovery. Fans have flooded social media with messages of support, with one writing, “Get well soon, Gezzy—Blackpool needs you!” The darts community, known for its camaraderie, has rallied behind him, with even rivals like Michael van Gerwen expressing hope for his return. “It’s been crazy out here,” van Gerwen said of the season’s intensity, adding that he expects Price to “come back stronger.”
## Impact on the PDC Season
Price’s illness comes at a pivotal moment in the 2025 PDC calendar. The World Matchplay, with its £200,000 top prize and unique two-leg winning margin format, is a proving ground for the sport’s biggest names. Price, ranked among the top four in the PDC Order of Merit, is a guaranteed starter, but his preparation could be hampered if recovery lingers. The tournament will see him face off against stars like Luke Littler, Luke Humphries, and Josh Rock, who are riding high in the latest form guide. Littler, in particular, has brought a “fear factor” to the oche, as noted by darts legend Dennis Priestley, making Price’s return to full strength all the more urgent.
Beyond the World Matchplay, Price is also expected to compete in the US Open Series, including the National Bank Open and Cincinnati Open, as he fine-tunes for the US Open in late August. These hard court tournaments events are part of his strategy to maintain his ranking points and build momentum for the World Darts Championship later in 2025. His absence or diminished performance could open the door for players like Stephen Bunting, who’s been tipped as a dark horse after breaking the 100-average barrier, to seize the spotlight.
## The Bigger Picture: Price’s Legacy
Price’s health scare has prompted reflection on his remarkable career. From his rugby league roots to becoming a darts superstar, the Welshman has defied expectations, amassing over £2.5 million in earnings and multiple major titles, including the Grand Slam of Darts. His journey hasn’t been without controversy—his on-stage antics have sparked debates—but his talent is undeniable. “The difference between him and the rest is unreal,” Kempf said of Price’s ability to dominate legs, a skill that has kept him a fan favorite.
As he battles this illness, Price’s resilience will be tested in a different arena. The darts world is no stranger to comeback stories, and Price’s determination suggests he’s far from finished. With the Winter Gardens’ electric atmosphere awaiting and the US Darts Masters at Madison Square Garden on the horizon, Price has every reason to push through. Fans can watch his recovery unfold on Sky Sports, which will broadcast the World Matchplay live, or via PDCTV for international viewers.
## Awaiting the Iceman’s Return
The darts world holds its breath as Gerwyn Price fights to reclaim his health. His absence from the oche would leave a void, but his promise to bounce back has ignited hope. Whether he’s launching 180s in Blackpool or battling for glory in New York, Price’s next chapter promises to be as compelling as his last. As one supporter put it, “The Iceman will be back, colder than ever.” For now, the focus is on rest, recovery, and the unwavering spirit of a champion.
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